14 Day Fast: Day 3

Scripture:
“There are six things which the Lord hates, Yes, seven which are an abomination to Him: Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood…”— Proverbs 6:16–17 (NASB1995)
 
Devotional:
We may not be guilty of physical murder, and we pray none among us ever will be. But many of us are guilty of something just as destructive in the eyes of God, killing with our words. The Lord hates hands that shed innocent blood, and we must remember that our words can pierce hearts, assassinate character, and sever unity in the body of Christ.
 Imagine a beautifully built house with solid walls, detailed finishings, and a firm foundation. But every day, someone inside quietly chips away at the support beams, loosening nails and cracking the drywall. Eventually, though no one saw it coming, the house collapses not from a storm, but from within. That is what our words do to the church. They weaken the structure God is trying to build when we choose our flesh over edification.

 As a church, we must repent for every harmful, divisive, or unloving word we’ve spoken to or about one another. Our mouths were made to build up, not to tear down. Gossip, slander, passive-aggressive comments, sarcastic jabs, or silent bitterness these are all weapons of mass destruction within the fellowship.
 
Application:
Today, take a moment to reflect on the words you’ve spoken over the past week. Were they seasoned with grace? Or were they filled with judgment, frustration, or even subtle malice? Ask yourself:
Have I gossiped or participated in a conversation that harmed someone else’s character?
Have I been quick to criticize and slow to encourage?
Have I remained silent when I should have spoken in defense of my brother or sister?
 
Now choose one person in the body whether you’ve offended them, been offended by them, or simply know they need encouragement and start fellowshipping. Call, text, or write them a message that builds up.
 
Takeaway for Today:
 My words will be used to heal, not to harm. I will be intentional in building, not breaking.
 
Prayer:
Father, we come before You in repentance for the ways we have harmed one another with our words. Forgive us for being careless with our speech, for allowing gossip, criticism, or silence to create division. Lord, You hate hands that shed innocent blood—and we know our tongues can be just as deadly. Cleanse our lips and renew our hearts. Let our church be known for a culture of edification and love. Help us speak words that restore, encourage, and unify. Teach us to use our mouths as instruments of peace and not destruction. In Jesus’ name, amen.