Drink Devotional Method: The Strength of Words (Proverbs 18)

Today, we turn to Proverbs chapter 18 to discover how the strength of words influences our lives, our relationships, and our walk with the Lord. Let's read and reflect together.

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D – Devotional Reading

Proverbs 18 – King James Version (KJV)

1 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom. 2 A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself. 3 When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach. 4 The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook. 5 It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment. 6 A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes. 7 A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul. 8 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly. 9 He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster. 10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. 11 The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit. 12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility. 13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him. 14 The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear? 15 The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge. 16 A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men. 17 He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him. 18 The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty. 19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle. 20 A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. 21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. 22 Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord. 23 The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly. 24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

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R – Reflection

I can’t help but pause at verse 21: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” These words weigh heavily on my heart. I’ve witnessed the strength of words—how a kind word brings hope and how a careless one tears down. Proverbs 18 reminds me that what I say matters eternally. Words can nourish (v.20), heal (v.4), or destroy (v.7). God’s wisdom calls me to steward my tongue wisely. I find comfort in knowing that when I feel overwhelmed, “the name of the Lord is a strong tower” (v.10), offering refuge and security no one else can give. In a world loud with opinions, the quiet voice of godly wisdom stands strong.

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I – Instruction

This chapter instructs us to guard our speech. Verses 6–8 show the progression from foolish words to destruction. God warns us that gossip wounds the soul, and a careless tongue invites conflict. Verse 13 tells me to listen before speaking. Most of all, verse 21 declares that my words carry life or death—this is a divine principle. As God’s people, we must speak truth in love, offer grace, and reflect Christ in how we talk.

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N – Now Live It

Today, I will speak with purpose. I will choose words that build up rather than tear down. I will pause before I speak, listen intently, and remember that silence can be wise. When faced with conflict, I will use gentle words and avoid gossip. I will remind myself that my speech reveals my heart—and I want my heart to honor God. In moments of frustration, I will run to the strong tower that is the name of the Lord and find peace before I respond.

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K – Kneel in Prayer

Lord, thank You for reminding me of the strength of words. Help me to speak life, to use my tongue to bless and not to curse. Guard my mouth from foolishness, and fill my heart with wisdom. May I be a wellspring of encouragement to others. Let my words be seasoned with grace and shaped by truth. And when I feel weak, remind me to run to Your name, my strong tower. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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You may also read our Proverbs 17 Devotional.

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What is DRINK Devotional Method?

The DRINK Devotional Method is a structured personal devotional approach designed to help believers engage with Scripture to intentionally walk and grow daily with Christ. Each letter in DRINK stands for a step while doing your silent moment with the scripture:

• D – Devotional Reading: Read the selected Bible passage slowly and reverently (Preferably at least 1 chapter).
• R – Reflection: Meditate on the truths revealed and how they apply to our walk with God.
• I – Instruction: Identify key lessons, commands, or promises to follow or hold onto.
• N – Now Live It: Commit to a specific action or change based on what God has shown.
• K – Kneel in Prayer: Close with a sincere prayer, asking the Lord for grace to live out His Word.

Whether you’re just starting a daily devotional habit or seeking a more meaningful Christian devotional routine, DRINK offers a simple yet powerful guide to draw closer to God and let His Word shape your life.

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