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Author: Ayodeji Oludapo
Date: January 16, 2025
Scripture: "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." – Matthew 12:34 (NKJV)
Devotional Thoughts
Our words are windows into our hearts. Jesus' teaching in Matthew 12:34 reminds us that what flows from our mouths reflects the condition of our inner life. If our words are consistently filled with encouragement, kindness, and truth, they reveal a heart aligned with God's will. On the other hand, harsh, deceitful, or hurtful words uncover a heart in need of transformation.
Consider the example of Peter in the Bible. Before Jesus’ crucifixion, Peter confidently declared his unwavering loyalty to Jesus, but when fear took hold during Jesus’ trial, his heart’s insecurity surfaced. Out of fear, Peter denied Jesus three times. Afterward, Peter repented, allowing God to heal and realign his heart. Post-resurrection, his words became bold and filled with the truth of the gospel, reflecting the Holy Spirit’s transformative work in him.
What we allow to reside in our hearts shapes the narrative of our lives. If we nourish our inner being with Scripture, worship, and prayer, our words will naturally overflow with grace and love. Conversely, if we allow bitterness, envy, or worry to take root, these will spill out into our speech.
Practical Reflection
Heart Check-Up: Take a moment to evaluate your recent conversations. What do they reveal about your inner life? Are your words reflecting patience, encouragement, and love?
Guard Your Heart: Proverbs 4:23 says, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Protect your heart from negative influences by immersing yourself in God’s Word and surrounding yourself with godly counsel.
Speak Life: Make it a practice to intentionally speak words of life to those around you. Compliment, encourage, and speak truth. Not only does this uplift others, but it also reshapes your own heart and perspective.
Closing Thoughts
Our words matter because they are a reflection of who we truly are. By inviting God to transform our hearts, we can ensure that what flows from our mouths aligns with His love and grace. When we allow the Holy Spirit to cultivate peace, joy, and love in our hearts, our words will naturally reflect the abundance of His presence in us.
Prayer
Lord, I open my heart to You. Examine me and remove anything that doesn’t reflect Your love and truth. Help me to guard my heart and fill it with Your Word, so that my words will bring life, encouragement, and grace to those around me. Transform me from the inside out, and may my speech glorify You in all things. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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