Proverbs 4: Verses 4-5 (NIV Anglicised version)
Then he taught me and he said to me, “Take hold of my words with all your heart, keep my commands and you will live.
Get wisdom, get understanding;
Do not forget my words or turn away from them.”
Words can make a massive impact on us – for good or ill. At best they can encourage and build us up, but if we’re not careful with what we say to others, they can also drag someone down. Today, however I am reminded of the positive effect they can have. Think of Winston Churchill’s stirring speeches during World War 2. They are still quoted often today.
Encouraging words don’t have to come from long speeches either. I was taught a lesson by a wise boss using only two words –“ never assume.” I have never forgotten this sound advice.
Many of the lessons Jesus taught as recorded in the Bible are often quoted by folk who wouldn’t even claim to follow His teaching, but we should also remember this valuable lesson which He taught as part of the Sermon on the Mount.
“Therefore anyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on a rock. The rain came down, the streams rose and the winds blew and beat against that house, yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.” (Matthew Chapter 7: verses 24-25 NIV Version)
It’s not enough just to be able to remember the things Jesus taught, or any other wise advice we have been given for that matter. We need to be able to put into practice what we have heard and learned – and that’s often the hardest thing!
Dear God,
Thank You for everything that Jesus taught. Help me to remember, but most of all to put it into practice. I pray in Jesus’ Name. Amen.