Devotional Guide for Thursday, February 15

Matthew 12:15-37

Reflect
Words matter. Have you ever had someone say something and then say, “I’m just kidding”, or “I didn’t really mean it that way?” It’s a little bit like a tube of toothpaste. Once the toothpaste is squished out, it is hard to put it back in as if it was never squeezed.

Our words have a way of encouraging or harming others, and in our passage today Jesus tells us it is by our words we will be acquitted or condemned.

“For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of” (v34b) If someone were to overhear you having a conversation, what would they say your heart is full of? I hope your conversation would be filled with grace, hope, kindness, and truth. A conversation that might lead to someone asking what makes you so different than others and an opportunity to share what Jesus has done for you.

As you go through this day, may you be mindful of the power your words carry.

Pastor Terry

Pray for Alberta Baptist Association
The ABA exists to connect and resource churches to impact communities for the growth and advancement of the Kingdom of God in Alberta (almost 60 churches) and around the world. The core ministry of the ABA is constructed around relationships, intended to focus upon effectively fulfilling the stated “Kingdom” mission of the association. In particular, the relational vision of the ABA is to ‘develop Kingdom leaders.’  This includes pastoral leaders, lay leaders and emerging leaders. The ABA continues to provide multiple other connection opportunities, placement coaching as well as professional consultation and resourcing around many ministry-needs and opportunities.