“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” Proverbs 18:21
“Thine own mouth condemneth thee, and not I; yea, thine own lips testify against thee.” Job 15:6
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10
“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:18
Our weekly Christian devotional
“I can’t believe how freakin’ nuts Julia sounds; enough with the God stuff already…” Lexi ramps up her Stairmaster.
“Yeah, I see her updates on Facebook.” Marie rolls her eyes. “The only reason we’re still ‘friends’ is so I can watch the freak show go down…what a weirdo.” The two giggle in unison before donning their headphones.
I’m not going to lie, overhearing that conversation was far from comfortable for me…
But, after the initial sting wore off, my heart sank even deeper as Proverbs 18:21, 9:10 and 16:18 came to mind. When we make fun of the things of God or the people living to serve Him, it’s important to consider what this does to ourselves. Those verses indicate that we can actually back ourselves into a corner with our own mouths!
Perhaps today you’re strong, beautiful and on top of the world, maybe right now you really don’t need a single thing. Since you seem to be doing perfectly fine without God, you wonder: “Why should I let Him start messing with my life?”
I get that. I’ve been there…
But, consider this–tomorrow, you might not be in that same place. Perhaps one day you’ll begin wondering if there is a deeper meaning for your existence. You might even be open to searching for the truth…
And when that day finally approaches, this thought might begin hammering at your heart like a guilty verdict: “What would people think if I suddenly turned to God, especially after all I’ve said about Him?”
Naturally, those snarky words you’ve spoken against Him will begin to resurface. The faces of friends and family who’ve witnessed this mockery will also flash across your mind’s eye. You now find yourself at a crossroad.
Psychologists say most people are highly motivated to protect their perceived integrity. That’s why it’s simply frightening to hear people speak blasphemies against God.
If you’re a brave soul, this probably won’t halt your search for the truth. But the sober reality is, when it comes to spiritual matters, most people really aren’t that brave at all. Comfort seems to trumps truth.
The majority of people who speak against God usually prefer taking the ‘easy’ route. They’d rather continue believing that God isn’t real. Because if He actually is, they assume He’s gotta be pretty ticked off at them. Fear twists around their hearts and minds. Their perceived idea about the nature of God prevents them from really delving in for an honest search for raw truth!
Does this describe you? Are you omitting God as a possible option in your quest for truth? If so, you’re only forcing yourself into figuring out the meaning of life—on your own. In essence, you’ve cursed yourself with your own words.
I just want to remind you of this simple truth: despite how most humans operate, God is merciful. He longs to forgive. This is because His ultimate goal isn’t to condemn you—but to spend eternity with you. Don’t let fear, pride, cruel words spoken or past mistakes prevent you from having the most transforming relationship—a personal one with God Himself.
“Dear Heavenly Father,
There’s so much power in my free will. I can use it for good or I can use it for evil. I can even use it against myself and add to my own demise.
Give me a reverential fear of the things of God. This is the beginning of a wisdom that’s infinitely larger than myself.
In the past, I’ve spoken harsh words against you. Have mercy on me, Lord. I confess my sins of blasphemy, pride, arrogance and posturing. I give all these attitudes to you.
Today, I bow my heart in true humility. I want to know you and experience you for myself. Forgive my ignorance and cursing words and ways.
Clear up my spiritual blindness and open my eyes to see how you’ve been working in my life. Allow me to hear what you’ve been saying to me. I’m ready to listen, Lord.
Give me the strength of character to continually allow you to be my guide. I want to discover the purpose you created me for. In Jesus’ name, I promise to search for The Truth with all my heart, soul and mind. Amen.”
Thank you for reading our weekly Christian devotional on verses: Proverbs 18:21, Job 15:6, Proverbs 9:10, Proverbs 16:18
Please check back and see what we have for you next week!
Author: Julia Shalom Jordan