Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day  36| WHAT’S THE VERDICT?

WHAT’S THE VERDICT?

Matthew 12:37
“Your very words will be used as evidence, and your words will declare you either innocent or guilty.” (Jesus)

Have you ever had an opinion of a person – which was good – only to find another friend of yours had a view of that same person which was NOT very good?

Why the difference?

Many things factor into our opinions of other people, but the biggest factor, I think, is the WORDS they speak.

A person can be one way with one person and another way with another.  And “the way” comes down to attitude, disposition, and WORDS.  A person can be “kind and sweet” with one person and “harsh, blunt, and obtuse” with another. Same person. Same mouth, different words.

On the witness stand we are required to swear an affirmation to “state the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth, so help me God.”  Our words matter.

Lies, harsh, ugly, and hurtful words come from our deep, evil, uncontrolled hearts… “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.”
 
So, one who speaks bad words reveals the TRUTH of what is inside them: evil, sinful thoughts.

Jesus always spoke words of HOPE to hurting people and saved his critical words for the religious people of His day when revealing their character flaws and sinful, self-righteous hearts.

So, just as there is benefit in “thinking about what you’re thinking about” from time to time, there is great value in trying to “listen” to yourself and the words you say too.

Now I know that seems strange because we don’t generally listen to ourselves… we just talk.

“The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.”  (Matthew 12:37 NLT)

Prayer: LORD, I want you to be happy with me and how I use my words as I live my life.  Help me THINK about what I say and strive to say words that are pleasing in your sight, words that show your grace, and helpful words to the listener. Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 35 | WHERE DID THAT COME FROM?

WHERE DID THAT COME FROM?

Matthew 12:34
“For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”  

The context of this verse is this… Jesus had just healed a demon-possessed, blind and mute man.  Yet the Pharisees – always looking to condemn Jesus for anything they could – decided that it wasn't GOD who empowered him, but Beelzebub (the devil).  Jesus then goes into a logical answer to these religious hypocrites and then points out that: “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”

I've taught an entire sermon on this one verse, but for this devotional, let me just state that Jesus was able to tell what was in the Pharisees' hearts and minds by just listening to the words they said.

Have you ever said something and wondered, "WHERE did that come from?" Most likely, the answer is that "something" you said was implanted in your heart and your mind at some time.  You had read it or perhaps heard it and then (probably) pondered it.  You thought about it, considered it, meditated on it, and perhaps even rehearsed it or your response to it.  Maybe subconsciously… but you did.

In the early computer days, it was often said “GIGO: Garbage in, Garbage out."

So, if garbage is coming OUT of your mouth – even a little bit or even on rare occasions – it’s gotten IN there first.  It just doesn't come out of nowhere.

Jesus also said “out of the abundance…” meaning that there was a LOT of meditating on, pondering, and considering that word or phrase before it came out  of your mouth.

James 3:8 tells us: "…but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison." (Good news: GOD CAN!)

Prayer: LORD, help me to NOT put garbage into my mind and heart.  Please help me to feed on things that are positive and pleasing in your sight. Help me tame my tongue.  Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 34 | YOUR MOUTH AND SALVATION

YOUR MOUTH AND SALVATION

Romans 10:9-10
“…that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” (NKJV)

We say lots of words… every day.  Thousands, the research shows!
 
Here we read some KEY verses in the New Testament that tell us HOW we can be saved. And our words are involved.

This Scripture tells us that we must use our mouths to declare that Jesus Christ is our LORD.  Additionally – and probably before that confession of faith – we must believe that God raised Jesus from the dead (the resurrection).

Most of us have been in services where we are asked to “raise our hand” if we’ve prayed a prayer to receive Christ.  And that is perfectly fine.  However, if that demonstration of our belief goes no further than a raised hand, I would start to wonder.

The NLT version of this verse adds some clarity: “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.”

You see, “openly declaring your faith” is a requirement.   Baptism is one way of doing that, but so is simply sharing with another person or two or twenty.
 
Jesus said it this way: “Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven.  But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.”  (Matthew 10:32-33)

If you’re a Christian, tell someone!

Prayer: LORD, I am grateful to be one of your children and be saved and born-again.  I am not ashamed of that.  Help me share my decision with others as you lead. And lead those who don’t know you yet, to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior.  Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 33 | WHAT LASTS FOREVER?

WHAT LASTS FOREVER?

1 Peter 1:25
“But the word of the Lord remains forever.” (ESV)

Remember the last time you were at a public or college library?  I can even remember being in the “stacks” at a college university library… ALL of those books NOT available in the “main library.”  In both cases – wow – what a ton of books!

Have you looked at how many books are for sale on Amazon?  I just did… there are nearly 50 million books are in print on Amazon today: hardbacks, paperbacks, and e-books.

Lots of words.  Some are worth reading, and – well – some are not. But lots of words.

And so the Apostle Peter tells us something important here, paralleling from Isaiah 40:8… “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the Word of our God stands forever.”

I find that generally, people today are pretty short-sighted.  They buy things (well, we all do) that won’t last but might give temporary pleasure… like that ice cream cone! And the ice cream is OK, but words go DEEPER than does ice cream. Words can penetrate our hearts and minds, and spirits.  Words can be calming or alarming.  Upsetting or soothing.  Challenging or helpful.

Here in this verse, we come to a kind of crossroads again.  For If it’s true that “the word of the Lord remains forever,” then shouldn’t the natural, logical response be, “Great! Then I’ll spend more time with God’s words!”  Yes, that would logically be the BEST answer.

But people are irrational, pleasure-seeking, unbelieving, and self-centered.  Relatively FEW people in this world of 7.8 billion people are spending any time reading God’s Word.  To say nothing of how few of those are trying to DO His Word.

But, HIS words last. If we’re smart, that’s where our focus should be.

Prayer: LORD, sometimes I forget how temporary this life is compared to YOU. And that YOU have given us both your Son and your Word.  Help me to treasure both Jesus and Your Word.  Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 32 | SHHHHHHH!

SHHHHHHH!

Proverbs 21:23
“Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.” (NLT)

Is it just me, or have you noticed the back-talking and critical tongues that seem to be in overdrive now-a-days?

I’m guessing people are angry at SOMETHING that is going on and they’re going to mouth off about it to someone or anyone standing nearby.

A wise piece of advice I heard years ago was this: “Don’t argue with crazy people.”

That wise philosopher of old – Mark Twain – put it this way: “Never argue with a fool; onlookers may not be able to tell the difference.”

Today it seems that EVERYTHING has become politicized.  Everything is causing a divide.  It’s the “Hatfield’s and the McCoy’s” everywhere you go.  Are you driving an EV or hybrid to help save the planet, or not?  Plastic or paper bags… or bring your own?  Meat or meatless?  And on and on.

Most people naturally like to give their thoughts and opinions to others. But often, the other person doesn’t REALLY care. Especially, it seems, if you’re on the “other side” of whatever the topic is.  Most people don’t want to hear why others think differently, they really only want their opinions to be validated.

And thus, why Solomon gave these wise words.

And it’s not that you’re calm, rational words are not worthwhile, it’s really because without much effort, your “calm” discussion can turn on a dime into a raging argumentative, hurt-feelings, and angry “debate.”
 
Thus, as another version says it: “Watch your words and be careful what you say, and you’ll be surprised by how few troubles you’ll have.” (TPT)

Prayer: LORD, give me the wisdom I need to know WHEN to speak up about an issue and when just to keep my mouth shut. Except for standing up for YOU, I need not be argumentative.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 31 | GOD-BREATHED WORDS

GOD-BREATHED WORDS

2 Timothy 3:16-17
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.” (ESV)

When you’re young and attending church or Sunday school, and you hear this verse… well, it’s strange.  I mean to a ten-year-old, what’s all this “breathing out by God” stuff?  I mean, I breathe in and out all day long… is that what they’re talking about here?

Of course, it’s more than that.  As we grow in our faith, we come to realize that the Bible is also – and perhaps more accurately – called the Word of God.

When my parents talked to me, especially if it was about a chore to do or something they wanted me to remember, I paid close attention.  I mean, they were my folks and needed me to hear and do.  They loved me and cared for me and were trustworthy.

When we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, God becomes our heavenly FATHER and has things to tell us that will protect, guide, and help us be all He wants us to be.  Remember, God loves us and cares for us and is totally trustworthy… even more than good parents.

These two verses are KEY to our understanding the importance of the Bible. I mean… the Bible is NOT just another book on the shelf.

Peter, the apostle, furthers our understanding with these words: “Above all, you must realize that no prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet’s own understanding, or from human initiative. No, those prophet,, s were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God.” (2 Peter 1:20-21)

The words coming OUT of our mouths will be strongly influenced – for good – if we allow God’s inspired Words to live in our lives.

Prayer: LORD, thank you for your inspired words we call the Bible.  Help me to love and cherish your words so that your words may positively impact my words for the benefit of all.  Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 30 | OUR DUPLICITOUS TONGUES

OUR DUPLICITOUS TONGUES

James 3:9-10
“With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.”

I like the book of James.  (Of course, it was named after me, right?  Well, maybe not.)  But James is, in many ways, the Proverbs-like practical book of the New Testament.

This section of James 3 reminds us that EVERY person you and I meet – no matter how vile they might be – was made in the image of God, even if they don’t realize it or accept it as truth. 

I like the way the TPT version expands our understanding of these verses, it says: “We use our tongue to praise God our Father and then turn around and curse a person who was made in his very image! Out of the same mouth we pour out words of praise one minute and curses the next. My brothers and sisters, this should never be!”

The AMP version adds this: “[for we have a moral obligation to speak in a manner that reflects our fear of God and profound respect for His precepts].”

So what’s the take-away here?

As followers of Jesus, we need to remind ourselves that everyone we meet – whether we like them or not, whether we agree with them politically or not, whether they share our faith or not – is MADE in the image of God.  And WE – you and I – have a moral obligation before God to always speak words that reflect our adoration and worship of Yahweh, AND his rules, precepts, and commands.

Jesus taught us to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart… and love your neighbor as yourself.”  That love can start with our words.

Prayer: Lord, may everyone I meet sense something different about me and the words I speak. And may that difference be because I’m one of Your children, and I’m speaking to please YOU. Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 29 | REFRESHING OTHERS

REFRESHING OTHERS

Proverbs 18:4  
“A person’s words can be life-giving water; words of true wisdom are as refreshing as a bubbling brook.”

Can you remember having been to a sporting event and somewhere in the middle you felt like getting something to munch on or something cool to sip on?  You needed some “refreshment” and thus made your way to the hot dog stand or wherever.

Although it’s not always obvious, I’m sure there are people around you today who need some refreshment also.  Oh, not a hot dog kind of refreshment, but something that will help them in their current emotional state.

They may not acknowledge it, but people today are worried. They are upset. They are fearful.  There are plenty of things to be upset about.

I’m not going to debate those topics in this space, but I am saying that Scripture makes it clear that OUR WORDS – that means YOUR words – can be like “life-giving water.”  You have the power – just by saying the right things – to be as refreshing to someone who is upset and stressed, as a “bubbling brook” would be to a hot, fatigued hiker if he came upon it in the middle of a long stretch of uphill switchbacks.

Jesus said: “And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded.”  (Matthew 10:42)

So, I have an idea: Look more closely at the people you’re around in the next day or two and ask the LORD to show you someone you can refresh with an uplifting word.

PRAYER: LORD, here am I. My eyes can see.  My mouth can speak.  I can provide words like life-giving water to someone. Give me the wisdom to recognize the ones you would have me refresh.  Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 28 | GOD’S WORD

GOD’S WORD
 
Matthew 4:4
“But He answered and said, ‘It is written, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.”’”

I’ve got to be honest… when I first heard this verse when I was a boy, I thought “That doesn’t make sense.”  As a boy, I liked to EAT. In retrospect, I don’t know how my folks could afford having to throw so much food at me when I was a teenager!

But Jesus here – being tested by Satan after his baptism in the Jordan River by John the Baptist – is combating with Satan and using Scripture as His “weapon.”  Jesus is saying that the WORD of God is more important that food.

Which makes me think: If the Word of God is THAT important, and Christians NEED to read, ponder, and DO the Word of God (“Be doers of the Word and not hearers only” – James 1:22), then… how are we doing?

Today, we have many choices as to the food we eat (and I admit, we are BLESSED).  But many people choose unwisely.  They choose something with too much of this or too little of that. Sometimes, we give thought to what we eat and drink. Other times… not so much.

So now, let’s ask the same question of our “intake” of the Word of God?

Are we getting enough (of God’s Word)? Do we read and ponder? Or are we just speed reading to get through it?

In the Psalms you will sometime find the little word “Selah” after a phrase.  Analogous to the “rest” you’ll find in musical nomenclature, the word “Selah” is Hebrew and it means to pause, ponder, and/or consider what the phrase said.

Next time you read in your Bible, try adding your own “Selah” after a verse or two or three.  It will help you to get the most “nourishment” from it!

PRAYER: Lord, help me to gain from the Scriptures exactly what YOU want me to get. Help me to pause more often and seriously ponder YOUR WORD. Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 27 | KNOWLEDGE AND WORDS

KNOWLEDGE AND WORDS

Proverbs 11:9
“With their words, the godless destroy their friends, but knowledge will rescue the righteous.” (NLT)

I particularly like the books of Psalms and Proverbs.  Psalms talks to us about our relationships with GOD, whereas Proverbs gives us wise guidance in our relationships with other people.

Unfortunately, even Christians can destroy their friendships with their tongues.  Words can hurt and even destroy families too.

Here’s a quote for you to ponder: “Be careful with your words. Once they are said, they can be only forgiven, not forgotten.”

Everyone I know is stressed today. What with the economy, the homeless, the border situation, the rising costs of everything, and so much more… something seems to have everyone stressed.

And when we get stressed, we sometimes – without meaning to – lash out at others with our words.

So, this verse from Solomon can come in handy.
 
The AMP Bible puts it this way: “But through knowledge and discernment, the righteous will be rescued.”

What does that mean?

It means that by reading or listening to this devotional, YOU have taken one more step, which will lead to your gaining a little more “knowledge” leading to better “discernment” that can help you avoid the damage. And that goes from you perhaps CAUSING the damage to others by something you said or perhaps being damaged by some thoughtless words others say to YOU. Either way, YOU benefit!

Keep this in mind: God created ALL that is by His words.  (See Genesis 1).  We are made in HIS image. Therefore, our words contain the potential for either life or death. They can bless or curse. They can help or hinder. They can encourage or discourage.  It’s YOUR choice.

Choose to use your words wisely and bless others with what you say.

Prayer: LORD, help me remember to use my words in a way that is pleasing to YOU and helpful to others.  Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 26 | WATCH YOUR MOUTH

WATCH YOUR MOUTH

Ephesians 5:4
“Let there be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse [obscene or vulgar] joking because such things are not appropriate [for believers]; but instead speak of your thankfulness [to God].” (AMP)

Have you ever heard the phrase: “Be IN the world but not OF the world?”  Well, one might ask, what does that mean, and HOW do you do that?

Consider this…  when we become a Christian, we are “born again.” Additionally, John 1:12 says, “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.”

So then, we are  both “born again” and “children of God.”  Philippians 3:20 tells us also: “But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives.”

So this verse in Ephesians 5 teaches that, for us, inappropriate sins of the tongue include any speech that is obscene and degrading or foolish and dirty, as well as suggestive and immoral.  All those words out of our mouths bring disgrace on our Lord and us.
 
Today, people are just looking for a reason to discredit Christians, Christianity, and our Lord God. And inappropriate talk – like mentioned here – will do it for most non-Christians. It will allow them to discount us and continue to ignore the Lord.

Then too, many “baby Christians” – who may be struggling as they learn to walk, talk and become followers of Jesus – might be blown away if they were to hear someone older in the faith speak coarsely.
 
We have a responsibility to the LORD, our neighbors, and one another to fill our mouths with thanksgiving and joy and to be full of praise!

Prayer: LORD, once again, your Word is a Guide to my living, thinking, and talking.  Help me put a watch on my mouth and gently encourage other Believers to do the same.  Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 25 | GOD'S WORD WILL NOT RETURN EMPTY

GOD'S WORD WILL NOT RETURN EMPTY

Isaiah 55:8-11
“‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my Word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.’”

The last verse in this fabulous section talks about the WORD of the LORD, which does NOT return empty but accomplishes the LORD's purpose.  The context makes it clear that these are the LORD's words.

This section starts with fundaments that ALL followers of Jesus need to know about God's thoughts and ways, both of which are higher than ours.

But where this gets practical – from my point of view anyway – is when it comes to HIS Word. When His followers appropriately speak it, it will not return "empty."
 
Consider this: You and I have the privilege of having one (or more) copies of the Word of God… aka the Bible.  Preachers are commanded to "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15, KJV).  But ALL of us have the privilege of sharing HIS Word with our family and friends.  Never forget that the Bible is known as the Word of God for a reason. Treat it well, share as you are led, and watch it work!

Prayer: LORD, your Word is a "lamp unto my feet and light unto my path."  Lead me to share it appropriately and for Your honor and glory. Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 24 | IS YOUR RELIGION WORTHLESS?

IS YOUR RELIGION WORTHLESS?

James 1:26
“If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless.” (NLT)

The book of James – written by the half-brother of Jesus – has many practical statements in it… such as this one.

Once again – and we see it throughout both the Old and New Testaments – our words ARE important.

I’m always reminded that we are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26) and that God used HIS words to create everything that is (read Genesis 1).
 
Thus, our words have creative – and destructive – capabilities too.  Obviously, we’re not God, but being made in His image does give our words more power – good and bad – than most people (even Christians) realize.

James is writing here under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit that if we don’t control our tongues… our religion is worthless.

In James’ time, “religious” referred to those actions at a ceremonial public worship service.  James was trying to emphasize that the external trappings, rituals, and routines someone MAY have been sincerely trying to follow, were of no value if he (or she) also had a run-away tongue.

Another translation of this verse uses the phrase: “purity of heart,” which makes sense since we know that “out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45) Thus, if trash comes out of one’s mouth, it is a sure sign that this is what is in that person’s heart (or mind).

And the solution to keep the “heart” (or mind) from being filled with trash is to STOP dumping trash into your thinking and spend more time with God, His people, and in His Word.

Prayer: LORD, make me aware of when my tongue is out of control.  And help me to spend MORE TIME with You, your Word, and your people. Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day  23 | HOW TO LIVE LONG AND PROSPER

HOW TO LIVE LONG AND PROSPER

Psalms 34:12-14
“Does anyone want to live a life that is long and prosperous? Then keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies! Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it.” (NLT)

If you’re a Star Trek fan, you’ll recognize the Vulcan greeting of Mr. Spock: “Live long and prosper.”  Of course, sci-fi is fiction and can be fun but you can’t base your life on it.

But here in God’s Word, written by King David, is TRUTH.  And so, what does David – inspired by the Holy Spirit – have to say to us?

He is giving a short “formula,” if you will, about how to “live a life that is long and prosperous.”
 
If this were a business newsletter, you might think that the next piece of advice is how to work hard, study, learn, organize, plan, set goals, and so on.  But this isn’t a business newsletter… it’s a written piece designed to help us to see life from God’s point of view… from a Biblical worldview.

Thus, David says the way to have that long life and enjoy being prosperous or, as the NIV puts it, “Enjoy good days,” is to “keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies!”  And also to “turn away from evil and do good, search for peace and work to maintain it.”

You know, I’ve taken multiple management, administrative, and business-type classes during my several degree programs, and I’ve NEVER heard any of them suggest that formula!

But God’s Word always works.  You can’t try it today and expect the harvest tomorrow. But be faithful, be consistent, and the harvest WILL come.

Prayer: LORD, once again, your Word gives counter-cultural advice.  But I want to do things Your way. Help me Lord, remind me daily, and I’ll strive to live these words that David wrote. Amen.

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40 Days of WORDS
Day 22 | LYING TO A FRIEND

LYING TO A FRIEND

Proverbs 26:18-19
“Just as damaging as a madman shooting a deadly weapon is someone who lies to a friend and then says, ‘I was only joking.’”

When we were kids, we used to joke with one another. We would “kid-around” and it was all in “good fun.”  Unfortunately, one of the familiar games I remember from childhood was calling each other made-up names… none of which were true, but unfortunately, many of which imprinted in our minds and to some degree impacted us negatively.

But when we get older, things should change as we become more responsible and thoughtful about what we say to one another.  We need to “Put away childish things,” as it says in 1 Corinthians 13.

Solomon, in these verses, is making the parallel of a “madman shooting a deadly weapon” to someone “who lies lying to a friend.”  As we’ve learned in this series of 40 Days of Words, words new matter; words can hurt, cut, encourage, heal, discourage, and on and on, based on what is being said.  Lying to a friend – even in jest – is NOT appropriate, so says the wise Solomon.

And why not?  Because, just like our calling our childhood friends’ names (which were lies) was not appropriate (though we were too young to realize it), lying to someone – then or now – is also not appropriate.  It can cause unseen hurts, scars, and bruises by beating them up at a deeper, emotional, subconscious level.
 
As I was thinking about this, I was struck with how MANY things in our busy 21st century lives work AGAINST our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual fitness as it is.

“The thief comes to kill, steal and destroy.” (John 10:10)

There are enough challenges today for followers of Christ.  Let’s ALL use our words to bless, encourage, and uplift.

Prayer: LORD, help me be slower to speak and consider everything that I say to someone else more carefully.  Help me to use my words to bless others.  Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 21 | SINGING TO ONE-ANOTHER

SINGING TO ONE-ANOTHER

Ephesians 5:18-20
“Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Every church service I have ever attended has included singing.  Have you ever wondered why?  Well, it’s not necessarily that we are all such good singers – which we’re not – but it’s because the Lord made us (a) so that we could sing and (b) so that it would be good for us.

On Day 20 of this series, I talked about Psalm 100, which starts with: “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord,” and as I’ve said in church, we only have to make a joyful NOISE!

So why should we sing in church?

Well, you might like to know there are over 400 references to singing in the Bible.  King David commanded it be done and appointed people to do so (choirs) and created instruments designed for praise.

There is also the horizontal and the vertical element to singing.  Think of a cross.  The vertical piece is our singing to praise God.  The horizontal component is that we sing to encourage one another.

Notice too this verse says to be “filled with the Holy Spirit and sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.”  The Holy Spirit seems to inhabit the praises of God’s people when they sing to God and praise His name!

I once heard it said: “a healthy church is a singing church.”

So next Sunday, when you go to church, use your God-given voice to praise God in song together with your brothers and sisters in Christ.

“Let everything that has breathe praise the Lord!”  (Psalm 150)

Prayer: Lord, help me to look forward to the singing time at church.  Help me sing unto YOU and enjoy the fellowship we all share as we sing words of praise and glorify your name. Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 20 | SINGING WORDS OF PRAISE

SINGING WORDS OF PRAISE

Psalm 100
“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.”  

News flash: Words are usually spoken but can be sung too!  And they can be joyful, faith-filled, and God-honoring.

In both the Old and New Testaments, those who followed God would sing to Him.  The Psalms are all SONGS that were originally sung.

Although songs can be sorrowful, they can also be uplifting and full of praise!

Here in Psalm 100, David was excited to be going to God’s house. The Jews used this as a processional hymn. Notice verse 4 – “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise.”

This psalm has not one sorrowful note in it but is totally happy as should every Christian be as he enters the courts of the Lord!

Yes, there are many negative noises around us – TV, in the papers, and even friends, family, and neighbors – that could quickly sour our experience and drag us down.

But singing for many (or at least listening to good Christian music) can be an escape from the doldrums and help lift us into a time of praise and thanksgiving!

You might want to have some good Christian music ready to play to lift you when you start to feel defeated or down or when you just want to praise the Lord! It works for me!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for music.  Help me to use it to help me live my life that is pleasing to you, one that is full of praise and thanksgiving to YOU. Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 19 | WHERE EVIL WORDS LEAD

WHERE EVIL WORDS LEAD

Psalm 52:2-4
“All day long you plot destruction. Your tongue cuts like a sharp razor; you’re an expert at telling lies. You love evil more than good and lies more than truth. You love to destroy others with your words, you liar!”  (NLT)
 
This is another psalm written by David.  In this psalm he was making a comment about an evil leader who used his tongue in destructive, evil ways.  This evil person loved evil more than good and telling lies more than speaking the truth.  He used his words to lie about and try to destroy David.

Does that sound in any way like what we see and hear today?
 
The way I see it… TRUTH is under attack like never before in my lifetime.  Even basic fundamentals of life such as, “Is my newborn baby a boy or a girl?” is being questioned by a growing group of individuals.  Others today would argue that saying “2+2=4” is racist. Both are ridiculous of course, but many are okay with the deceit and are believing the lies they hear. They are ok with walking in darkness.

Therefore, if you speak the truth in today’s world you may be slandered or criticized.  (Thus, be careful to “speak the truth in love” – Ephesians 4:15)   So if and when that criticism comes, do like the Jews did… turn to Psalm 52 – the entire Psalm – for comfort.

Verse 5 says: “But God will strike you down once and for all,” and verse 8, “But I am like an olive tree, thriving in the house of God. I will always trust in God’s unfailing love.”

Prayer: LORD, You knew there would be days like we’re in today and I’m thankful that Your Word has much to say and wisdom to guide us. Thank You.  Help me to always stay in Your Word.  Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 18 | AVOIDING ANGER

AVOIDING ANGER

James 1:19-20
“Understand this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Let everyone be quick to hear [be a careful, thoughtful listener], slow to speak [a speaker of carefully chosen words and], slow to anger [patient, reflective, forgiving]; for the [resentful, deep-seated] anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God [that standard of behavior which He requires from us].” (AMP)

Anger is not new; it’s been around since Cain and Able.  And yet, it seems our society is becoming more easily angered about more and more things.  Politics have become vitriolic, divisive, and even hateful.  Road-rage is another common symptom.

But for the Church – for those of us who are trying to be followers of Jesus – James’ words are essential for our church health and cohesiveness.
 
In James’ period of history, the Church was under attack. Then it was the Jews who disliked (putting it mildly) those who followed the teachings of Jesus. Thus, divisions in the Church would weaken their testimony and their ability to stand together despite the attempts by Jews to squash this new movement.

Fast forward to today and you’ll see similar storm clouds brewing. Christianity – which the Founders of America held in high esteem – is no longer held in that esteem by many. As our society becomes more pagan, the pressure mounts on churches in several ways.

And so, James’ words – given to him by the Holy Spirit – are vital for our churches today. We must be quick to listen, careful in what we say, and slow to anger.  We are entering a time of the increased spiritual battle and we need to be one in Christ.

Prayer: LORD, help me listen more, speak thoughtful words, and avoid being angry with my Christian brothers and sisters.  You are the Head of the Church, and we need to live our faith and live with each other in a way pleasing to You. Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 17 | GENTLE WORDS

GENTLE WORDS

Proverbs 16:24
“Nothing is more appealing than speaking beautiful, life-giving words. For they release sweetness to our souls and inner healing to our spirits.” (TPT)
 
It’s incredible how much work we go through to look our best.  It doesn’t matter the age, 2 or 102, most people try to look their best… especially if they have company or are going out.  We are careful to get cleaned up, put on clean clothes, take care of our face and hair… and then we’re ready to be seen!

And why do we do all that? Because we want to be well thought of by whomever we’re with… or just by the public if we’re out and about.  We want to look our best and that’s ok.

But, Solomon – arguably the wisest man in history – says that what comes out of our mouth has the potential to be the most appealing and beautiful thing about us.

Ponder that.

If you want to be appreciated by others, then your words matter.

And Solomon says that we need to be speaking “beautiful, life-giving words.” And what kind of words are they?  He goes on to say they release “sweetness to our souls and inner healing to our spirits.”

Now consider this: Everyone you talk to today is hurting in some way.  Each person you meet today is in some way fearful, concerned, worried, upset, embarrassed, feeling guilty, frustrated, doubtful, sick, dying, or in some other way needing help or encouragement.

And here’s the Good News: We each have the capability of using what we say to uplift and administer sweetness and healing to that person.

So do this: each person you talk to today… try to say something encouraging, uplifting, complementary, or in some way “life-giving.”  It may take practice, but the LORD will help you do what He wants you to do.

Prayer: LORD, I understand this is what you want me to do more of.  Help me retrain my thinking and words to be more beautiful, life-giving, sweet, and healing to those around me.  Please help me to be a fountain of JOY for your honor and glory.  Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 16 | WORDS AND MEDITATIONS

WORDS AND MEDITATIONS

Psalm 19:14
“May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” (NLT)

In Genesis, we learn: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”  And that for six days, God created everything – including humanity – by speaking words.

Since we are made in His image, our words have power as well.  The Scripture teaches that “life and death are in the power of the tongue.” (Proverbs 18:21)

Studies show that people speak an average of 15,000 words a day… whether man or woman.  And since our words DO matter, I wonder how many of the 15,000 words you spoke yesterday were pleasing in God's sight?

How would you characterize your words yesterday?  Were they primarily encouraging, helpful, uplifting, calm, and filled with faith, hope, and love? Or were they often discouraging, negative, doubtful, fearful, dreading, upset, or unkind?

It's EASY today – especially if one watches or reads the news regularly – to reflect negativity in what we say.

Here's the deal… what we think about – or meditate on – will come out of our mouths.  And God holds His children – like we did our own children – responsible for what comes out of our mouths.

Paul said it in Ephesians 4:29 – “And never let ugly or hateful words come from your mouth, but instead let your words become beautiful gifts that encourage others; do this by speaking words of grace to help them.” (TPT)

 This Psalm is a prayer to the LORD, and we need to ask Him to help us with the words of our mouths just as David did here.

Prayer: LORD, there are so many things my mouth is capable of saying.  Please help me think on and say words that are pleasing things in your sight.  Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 15 | MORE LIKE HIM

MORE LIKE HIM

Proverbs 17:9
“Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.” (NIV)

Have you noticed how imperfect everyone you know is?  (And have you noticed how flawed you are too?)

The Scripture tells us that “There is none righteous, no not one.” (Romans 3:10) What does that mean?
 
Well, it means that none of us is fully Christ-like… at least not yet.  One day, yes – when Christ comes again – and in the meantime, we continue following Jesus, staying in His Word, and slowly becoming more like Him.

In the meantime, this proverb tells us something important about how we need to deal with one another.  We are to deal with each other in love.

Peter said it well in 1 Peter 4:8 – “Above all, love each other deeply because love covers a multitude of sins.” Peter wrote this to Christians… and that means us today too.

To LOVE means that we make allowances for others' imperfections because we have ours too.  And to love – as Jesus taught His disciples – means NOT repeating someone's faults to others.
 
Here in Proverbs, Solomon recognized that when he wrote these words. The Amplified says it this way: “He who covers and forgives an offense seeks love, but he who repeats or harps on a matter separates even close friends.”

In the Lord's Prayer, we ask the LORD to “forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.” We are asking Him to forgive us like we forgive others.  When God forgives us, He doesn't continue to bring it up again and again and again.  But we often do… thus the message of this verse: Don't.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for forgiving me and not bringing it up again and again.  Please help me be more like that, too, as I deal with those in my little circle. Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 14 | THINKING CAREFULLY

THINKING CAREFULLY

Proverbs 15:28
“The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking; the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words.” (NLT)

Maybe it’s me, but it seems way easier to say whatever comes into your mind than to “think carefully before speaking.” And, of course, that’s the point of this proverb.

Solomon had noticed that the godly – those who value God and have given Him a priority in their lives – spoke differently from others.  One of the things they learned to do is to WAIT long enough before speaking to ensure that the words were appropriate, well-chosen, and – a big one for many – in line with that verse in Ephesians 4:15 – “Speaking the truth in love.”

When I was a young associate pastor, I was in the car with the older, experienced senior pastor.  We talked about many appropriate things for a younger newbie to learn… but one comes to mind right now.  He told me that a new mother in one of his churches had just had a baby.  He said he had seen many newborns, but this one was the least attractive newborn baby he had ever seen.  The new mother was excitedly showing the pastor her baby, to which he replied, “My, isn’t that a baby!” The mother was thrilled!

This pastor had thought carefully before speaking.

We live in a time when everyone is talking. Everyone is posting, writing, doing podcasts, and communicating to the world.  It has never been this busy.

This is all the more reason to THINK carefully before speaking and not be like the “wicked” who babble on “with evil words.”

Prayer: LORD, I desire to think before I speak and then speak words that will uplift and help others. Help me to do just that – for your glory. Amen.

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 13 | TWO THINGS WE MUST NOT DO

TWO THINGS WE MUST NOT DO

Titus 3:2
“They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling.”

We are living in strange times.  Our country is divided like never before except perhaps during the Civil War of the 1860s.  It seems the dueling points of view – conservative vs. progressive – have become so vitriolic that it’s nearly impossible to discuss rationally with someone from another point of view without things de-evolving into name-calling and some form of hatred.

In this verse – as relevant today as when written nearly 2000 years ago – believers… Followers of Jesus are commanded to: “not slander anyone” and to “avoid quarreling.”

It starts quickly enough.  We strike up a casual conversation with a friend, neighbor, work colleague, or someone else.  Often, we use these opening conversations to determine if the other person is “on our side” about an issue.  Then if they say something that shows even one little thing that you disagree with, we often pounce on that as an opening to explain how wrong they are and how right we are.  This causes a volume and intensity increase from the other side, and the whole thing often escalates into a heated argument with no clear winners or concessions but with a dislike of the other person.

God knows this and passed the wisdom to Paul, who shared it in his letter to Titus.
 
Slander means: “for someone to tell one or more others an untruth about another which will hurt the reputation of the person being defamed.”
 
Quarreling means: “an interaction in which the parties involved express angry disagreement with one another.” (Or I might call it: “word rage”)

This verse does not prohibit sharing our opinions, beliefs, or ideas with someone else, but it does tell us to avoid slandering and quarreling. Both of which are an inefficient use of our words.

Prayer: LORD, help me have the wisdom I need to know when a good time to discuss something important with someone is.  And help me not to let it evolve into either slander or quarreling.  Amen.  

Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of WORDS
Day 12 | LET YOUR WORDS BE FEW

LET YOUR WORDS BE FEW

Ecclesiastes 5:1-2
“As you enter the house of God, keep your ears open and your mouth shut. It is evil to make mindless offerings to God. Don’t make rash promises, and don’t be hasty in bringing matters before God. After all, God is in heaven, and you are here on earth. So let your words be few.” (NLT)

Yesterday, we talked about limiting the words we say to one another.

Today, that same wise man – Solomon, the writer of both the Proverbs AND Ecclesiastes – is talking about the wisdom we should acquire when we go into the house of the Lord; when we go to speak to the LORD in prayer.

One of the most important things to know about God is this: He’s God, and we’re not.

So, Solomon gives us wise instruction when we “enter the house of God,” and that is, to enter with “ears open and mouth shut.” We NEED to hear from God.  Frankly, He doesn’t NEED to hear from us. Again, He’s God, and we’re not. We need God; He doesn’t NEED us.  He does love us and care for us, and wants to provide for us. He does want to have a relationship with us… but “need us”?  No.  He existed just fine in eternity past without us!

Once we grasp that, we might better understand why God doesn’t NEED to hear from us either.
 
Ever tried having a conversation with a two-year-old?  They are trying to tell you about their lives which they are experiencing.  You’ve “been there, done that” and are WAY beyond them in so many ways.  Yet, you listen – out of love. But as they grow, they NEED to listen to you even more.  You know the way.  You know the pitfalls.

And so does God.

Prayer: LORD, help me remember EVERY DAY that You are God, and I’m not.  Help me let my words be few and listen more to what YOU have to say every day.  Amen.