The Proverbs Challenge - Day 16

Hi Woman of God

Happy Monday! As we begin this week, I pray that we continue to lean into His Word and hear His voice more clearly. We’re entering the second half of this journey, and I’m excited for all that God is revealing to us through these chapters.

Below are my study notes for today’s chapter using the S.O.A.P method. Let’s jump in!

SCRIPTURE

Proverbs Chapter 16 (the chapter as a whole with emphasis on the verses mentioned below)

OBSERVATION

This chapter presents key principles about living a God-aligned life. It teaches the importance of trusting God’s sovereignty over our plans, recognising that while we may plan, it is God who ultimately directs our steps (verses 3, 9). It also warns against pride, showing how it leads to destruction, while humility positions us to walk in wisdom and grace (verse 18). Trusting in the Lord brings peace, happiness, and blessings, as seen in verse 20. These themes offer guidance for building a life rooted in humility, faith, and dependence on God.

However, the teaching that stands out most to me in this chapter is the repeated emphasis on the power and influence of words:

1. The Source of Wise Speech (Verse 1):
   "The preparations of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord." This verse highlights that while we prepare our words, the wisdom to speak rightly comes from God.

2. Words That Bring Favor (Verse 13):
   "Righteous lips are the delight of kings, and they love him who speaks what is right." Integrity in our speech brings honour and favour in our relationships.

3. Sweet Words That Heal (Verses 21, 23–24):
   "The wise in heart will be called prudent, and sweetness of the lips increases learning." This verse, along with verses 23–24, speaks of the transformative power of kind, thoughtful words. They are like honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the body, offering life and encouragement.

4. Destructive Words (Verses 27–28):
   "An ungodly man digs up evil, and it is on his lips like a burning fire. A perverse man sows strife, and a whisperer separates the best of friends." These verses illustrate the damaging effects of careless, ungodly speech, which can cause division, harm relationships, and create conflict.

The repetition of this theme in Proverbs 16 shows how deeply our words influence our lives and the lives of those around us. Whether our speech builds up or tears down depends on the wisdom and intent behind them.

APPLICATION

I am convicted to focus on the power of my words in these ways:

1. Using Words to Heal and Encourage:
   I will prioritise being intentional about showing kindness, offering encouragement, and using my speech to glorify God. When facing conflict, I will strive to choose words that bring peace instead of strife.

2. Guarding Against Destructive Speech:
   I will actively avoid gossip, negativity, and unkind words, continuously asking God to give me the grace to not fall into these patterns. When I find myself tempted to speak in frustration or anger, I will pause to seek God’s wisdom so that my words reflect His grace and truth.

3. Seeking God’s Guidance in My Speech:
   I will rely on God to guide my speech, praying regularly for wisdom so that my words will align with His will. I will make a habit of surrendering my tongue to Him, knowing He is the source of wisdom and integrity.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder of how powerful words are. Teach me to speak with wisdom, kindness, and love, so my words bring healing and encouragement to others. Help me to avoid destructive speech and guard my tongue against gossip or negativity. I pray for Your guidance in all my conversations, that what I say will glorify You and reflect Your truth. Lord, thank You for the wisdom in this chapter, and may my words always align with Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See you tomorrow for Day 17 sis ✨

With my love

Tochi
creatortochi.com
IG @creatortochi