Join us in today’s devotion and prayer-
Read Proverbs 18:13-24 in your favorite version or in the following KJV and then join us in praying below:
Proverbs 18:13-24
13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.
14 The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?
15 The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.
16 A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.
17 He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbor cometh and searcheth him.
18 The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.
19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.
20 A man’s belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.
21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
22 Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the Lord.
23 The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly.
24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. (KJV)
Our Father,
Help us to be respectful of others and listen before we actually respond; we seek knowledge and understanding and without listening to you and others we cannot grow. May you help us to expand our talents without becoming arrogant; by your counsel help us to always be humble before everyone so that we might receive your blessings.
Help us O Lord to be discerning; the stories and arguments presented before us all seem to have merit. Help us to subject everything to your word and teaching that The Truth might always be before us as our guide.
Help us to avoid quarrels and offensive discourse: let our responses be full of understanding and love. Let us never be haughty but tender in all of our relationships; let apologies naturally flow from us when we have misspoken and brought hurt to others.
Help us O Lord to train our tongue to always speak life into others and be the source of edification and unity rather than bringing hurt and disagreement.
Help us Father, we want to be a good friend of yours and your Son Jesus; that we might always be blessed in this life and the life to come and spread your love and blessings to all we come in contact with daily.
In Jesus Name, Amen.