A Daily Purpose

Bible Study & Devotional 248

Guiding Scripture: Psalm 49:3, ‘My mouth will speak words of wisdom; the meditation of my heart will give you understanding.’

A Wise Choice

written by: Torrie Slaughter

The psalmist is teaching us a valuable lesson about interpersonal communication. He lets us know that the words he will speak are from God because he thoughtfully pursued His truth. Psalm 49 focuses on the future of the wicked and trust in earthly wealth. The psalmist concludes that their glory will not follow them in death, and we can control the urge to fear rich people. 

Hasty Words

There are many instances I wish I were more careful with my words. I’ve spoken out of turn, uttered inappropriate things, and rushed to advise without prayerful consideration. My mouth committed me to things God was not going to bless. The fear of affluent people and pride created barriers between truth and honest communication. 

Wisdom Speaks

As you ponder today’s reading and consider ways to pray while in conversation, I hope you are encouraged. We can pray without ceasing, which quickens our response time while thoughtfully analyzing the outcome. Essentially, God’s wisdom and knowledge come through in our words while we offer His profound insight. 

Call to Action

Psalm 49 asks us to examine our comforts. 

• Do we believe our wealth will save us from death? (Psalm 49:6-9)
• Is our security found in money or materials? (Psalm 49:10)
• Can we achieve happiness based on the items we own? (Psalm 49:11-12)

While we meditate on our attitude toward trust in wealth, we can ask God to enlighten us. The idea of an intimate relationship with Jesus should bring us joy. And His salvation offers us ways to walk by faith actively. 

A few ways we open communication is by asking the Holy Spirit to increase our awareness of:

1. Ourselves. Lord, help our emotional intelligence to honor you with our words, thoughts, and actions.
2. Others. Father, please strengthen us to consciously and respectfully interact with our family, friends, and neighbors.
3. God. Lord, help us to listen to understand.

I pray you continue to seek wisdom through reading God’s Word and allow His truth to imprint on your heart. 

The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Monday, September 5, 2022

Ecclesiastes 10:1-12:14, 2 Corinthians 8:1-15, Psalm 49:1-20, Proverbs 22:20-21

Download or Print the One Year Bible Reading Plan