Scripture References: Proverbs 31:26; John 1:1-4; Hebrews 4:12; Ephesians 6:17; James 1:5; Matthew 11:28-30
Sermon Notes:
Intro: Welcome to week two of our Proverbs 31 study. Last week set a foundation of freedom. Today, focusing on verse 26, we explore the power and source of the godly woman's speech: "She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue." Despite personal inadequacy, we trust God gives wisdom and kindness for our lives and words.
Key Points:
- Center on the Word (John 1:1-4): Before examining our words, we center on Jesus – The Word, the source of all true wisdom and kindness.
- "She Opens (Pathak)" Her Mouth: This Hebrew word implies opening wide, opening oneself – vulnerability, freedom, releasing what's inside. It’s the starting point for genuine connection.
- "Her Mouth (Peh)": Represents more than speech; it's the opening to the source (her heart, like a well) and can be powerful like a sword (Heb 4:12), bringing forth life or destruction (Prov 18:21).
- "With Wisdom (Chokmah)": This is practical skill for living:
- Wisdom in War: Spiritual strategies against the enemy's attacks/lies (e.g., Repent, Renounce, Receive). God equips us to fight.
- Wisdom in Administration: Skill to manage households, work, responsibilities with excellence and order.
- Wisdom in Ethics/Relationships: Discernment for right action and speech in complex situations. God gives this over time and freely in the moment (James 1:5).
- Words Reflect the Heart: What comes out shows what's inside. Acknowledge both the potential for damage (harsh words, gossip) and life (healing, encouragement) in our speech. We need honesty about our struggles.
- Responsibility, Not Shame: We are responsible for our words (Gal 6:5 MSG). This isn't a legalistic burden but accepting Christ's lighter yoke (Matt 11:28-30). It involves quick repentance and accountability.
- Her "Tongue (Lashon)": Her primary language, learned from her Father God.
- "The Law (Torah) of Kindness (Chesed)": Her guiding principle ("law") isn't legalism but Chesed – God's covenantal loving-kindness and mercy. This becomes her native language. It flows from receiving God's kindness (which leads to repentance) and extending kindness to ourselves.
Conclusion: The Proverbs 31 woman's speech isn't merely polite; it flows from a heart connected to God, the source of wisdom and Chesed-kindness. She speaks with vulnerability and power, bringing life and healing. This requires taking responsibility for our words while resting in God's grace.
Call to Action:
- Seek Wisdom: Ask God for wisdom daily – for spiritual battles, managing life, relating rightly.
- Take Responsibility: Own your words. Repent quickly for harmful speech. Choose words that build up.
- Receive & Speak Kindness: Let God's Chesed-kindness saturate your heart. Practice kindness towards yourself. Make kindness your default language towards others. Let His kindness flow through you.
- Respond: Allow God's Word and Spirit to transform your heart and speech.
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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