Lent Day 25 - Words from the Heart

‘May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.’ Psalm 19:14

Many years ago, I began highlighting verses about the mouth, tongue or words. The regular splashes of blue in my Bible constantly remind me that words are important to God. Words can build up or tear down, encourage or dishearten, heal or wound. Dwelling with David’s prayer reminds us to speak words that are pleasing to God, inspiring speech that reflects his character. Words that are tolerant not judgemental, thankful not grumpy, pleasant not bitter, patient not irritable, kind not hurtful, complimentary not fault-finding.

If you tend to rush your words or written messages, slow down. Slowing your speed of talking, even a little, gives pause for your mouth to remain in tune with the nature and will of the Holy Spirit; prompting, guiding or convicting you about what to say, and how; words that are true, helpful, encouraging, kind, understanding . . . and ‘full of grace’ (Col. 4:6).

Take a few moments to pray another of David’s prayers that asks for God’s help with words:

‘Set a guard over my mouth,  Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips’ (Ps. 141:3).

Perhaps you’d like to start highlighting such verses in your Bible too?

Taken from Dwell by Anne Le Tissier

Do you feel too busy to spend quality time with God?

Do you long to know God better?

Do you want to revitalise your Bible reading?

Dwell invites you to slow down and reflect on one short Bible passage over the course of a week in a way that can be fitted into even the busiest schedule.

Through guided questions or exercises each day that draw on different aspects of the Bible verses, Anne Le Tissier helps you to understand, participate in and be shaped by what you have read. Dwelling in Scripture in this way enables God's words to make a home in your heart long after the week has passed.

Let God's Word dwell in you as you grow closer to him, one verse at a time.

Reflect

Dwell with David’s prayer through your day, let it prompt you to set your thoughts on God to shape your thinking, perspective and responses; in your working and resting, in the busyness and mundane, and when you speak to, message or listen to others.