Words That Build Up

1 · READ THE TEXT

Proverbs 15:1-4 & 18:20-21

2 · UNDERSTAND

"A soft answer turns away wrath" is one of the most practical observations in Scripture: tone changes the outcome as much as content does. Proverbs goes so far as to say that death and life are in the power of the tongue, and that those who love it will eat its fruit — meaning you will be fed by what you say, for better or worse. The wise tongue is called "a tree of life"; the perverse one, "a breaking of the spirit". Nobody needs to shout to be heard, and a word spoken at the right moment is worth more than the right word spoken at the wrong one.

3 · REFLECT AND ANSWER

Read the text again and answer calmly. Your answers are kept only in this browser.

1. 1.What does this text reveal about who God is?
2. 2.What does it show about people — and about you?
3. 3.What will you do differently today because of it?

4 · LIVE AND PRAY

Practical application

Today, the first time someone irritates you, answer more quietly and more slowly than usual. Notice the effect.