“Let your conversation be always full of grace” Col. 4:6. “Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit” Prov. 15:4. “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing” Prov. 12:18. “What you say flows from what is in your heart” Luke 6:4.
Jesus, I want this collage of Scriptures to fill, free, and frame my heart this week. Since our lips reveal the preoccupation of our hearts, help me and my friends fix our minds and hearts on you, Lord.
Your beauty is simultaneously breathtaking and lifegiving. Your goodness is the headwater from which all goodness comes. Your truth… well, it’s who you are. You aren’t a mere answer, Jesus, you are the reason and meaning of all things.
As your Spirit strengthens us, may we speak 100 healing words for every thoughtless, uncaring, and hurtful syllable. Even our body language—may it be a taste of your welcome, an invitation to your kindness, and an extension of your grace. And when our lips contradict the Gospel, grant us quick repentances and more grace.
Surely the Gospel can enable us to engage in conflict redemptively, and disagree with each other respectfully this week. To the extent it depends on us, you have called us to live at peace with everyone (Rom. 12:18). Show us what that looks like Jesus. Give us bigger Gospel-hearts and thicker mercy-skin. So Very Amen.