Proverbs 10

OK so I'm feeling completely like JimBob Duggar.  Today, being the 10th of the month, I decided to read through the 10th Chapter of Proverbs.  You see, as JimBob would tell you, there are 31 chapters in the book of Proverbs. Enough for one per day in most months.  So, if you are looking for wisdom (which is what Proverbs is) then a Proverb a day keeps the foolishness away.  (yes, I just made that up...geek, I know)

Proverbs 10:19 - Too much talk leads to sin.  Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.

Does this mean that I can't talk?  My mouth must stay closed?  Should I lock myself away from the world and be silent?  *I hear my family laughing at the thought of me being silent right now*

Of course we can't stay silent.  We must speak.  But too much speaking leads to sin.  Ever talked just to have something to say?  I have.  (many times)  And what usually comes out in those spewings is not thoughtful, uplifting, encouraging, truthful...

Proverbs 10:32 - The lips of the godly speak helpful words, but the mouth of the wicked speaks perverse words.

I would love to say that in order to make sure the words we speak are helpful words, we simple need to try really hard.  Unfortunately that seldom works for long.  The trouble with our mouths is that they are directly connected to our hearts.  And until our hearts are right, our words will never consistently be either.

Luke 6:45b - What you say flows from what is in your heart.

May I choose to fill my heart with patience and kindness, gentleness and joy, goodness and love so that what flows from my mouth with be likewise.

ps - I love the Duggars