Power of Words!
Last week I shared David's prayer in Psalm 19:14 (ESV) "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer." David reminds us how we should discipline ourselves with our thoughts, meditations, words and actions. We should focus on those that are pleasing to God.
Our awesome, incredible Nation is in the middle of a season when we really need to focus and live out this scripture. I encourage you to know what you think and believe. And definitely VOTE. However, in our world today we see a sense of divisiveness that is dangerously strong. Sadly, some things, like opinions, or politics, have become more important than people. This is not pleasing to God. So, I encourage all of us to think before we speak - verbally, in writing, or especially in social media.
The Bible is full of scriptures that speak of the power of words. Here are a few from "THE WORD" to think about and claim...
"Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips." Psalm 141:3 (NIV)
"Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut." Proverbs 10:19 (NLT)
"The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice, but the tongue that deceives will be cut off." Proverbs 10:31 (NLT)
"Wise words bring many benefits." Proverbs 12:14 (NLT)
"The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Proverbs 12:18 (NIV)
"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Proverbs 15:1 (NASB)
"The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking." Proverbs 15:28 (NLT)
"Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." Proverbs 16:34 (NIV)
"It is not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth." Matthew 15:11 (NLT)
"If you claim to be religious but don't control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless." James 1:26 (NLT)
"If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies." 1 Peter 3:10 (NLT)
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)
Again, let's pray like David, a man after God's own heart, that our words and meditations are pleasing and acceptable to our Lord. May we strive to be Christlike in our actions and words, and especially our love towards one another. May others know that we are followers of Christ by our Love.
Speaking of folks who exemplify Christ, Lissa Shearer's Father, and Bennett Lambs Grandfather, passed away unexpectedly and quickly this past week. Rev. Bill Bryant was the Pastor at First Presbyterian for many years. He is revered by many and positively touched the lives of many generations. Just a week prior he had officiated the wedding of a family member. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. And we celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Bryant.
Last Sunday we enjoyed a Pizza Potluck. Thank you Val and Tanya for taking care of our pizza, and to Lissa for the delicious meatballs and marinara sauce. Many brought delicious salads and desserts. Thank you. Ladies please make plans to participate with the "Recipe for a Festive Holiday" on Saturday, November 16. It will be a fun time. Also, please continue to pray for the sister church family that God is going to connect us with in the hurricane ravaged area. (We are getting close to finding our "partner in ministry".)
This Sunday I hope you will join us. Exciting Bible study on Proverbs is at 9:30. We will continue our look at "Mystery" in Ephesians focusing on Unity in the Body. If it has been a while since we've seen you, know that you are missed and we look forward to seeing you soon. In the meantime, let's all intentionally take time to give someone encouragement and kindness. It will make your day better! I look forward to seeing many of you Sunday. And...
Always Remember,
You ARE Loved!
Pastor Lonnie
"More in '24"
(You can reach Pastor Lonnie by calling or texting 615-496-2502 or send an email to lonniecastle@gmail.com)