Daily Devotional – Tuesday, April 28, 2026
A person finds joy in giving an apt reply— and how good is a timely word!
Proverbs 15:23 (NKJV)
One evening, a mother walked in and found her son staring at his open book, pencil untouched. She was ready to scold him for wasting time but held back and asked, “What part is confusing you?” He hesitated, then pointed to the page. She pulled a chair beside him, and they worked through it line by line.
Before You Say Anything
Today’s key verse speaks into moments like that. It reminds us that there is a real joy in providing a proper response. Not just saying the right thing, but saying what actually fits the moment. Timing matters. Tone matters. And the spirit behind the words matters even more. A careless sentence can deepen a wound, but a thoughtful one can bring relief.
Most of us do not think of speaking as something we need to work on. Words just come out. Especially when we are weary, frustrated, or trying to prove a point. Solomon gently challenges that notion. He shows that good speech is not accidental. It comes from slowing down, listening, and choosing words that help rather than harm.
Words That Build or Break
That approach to communication takes effort. It entails pausing when you want to react quickly. It means asking yourself if what you are about to say will actually make things better. You don’t have to be perfect with your words, but you have to be intentional with them.
As you go through your day, pay closer attention to your conversations. Invite God into those moments. Let Him shape your responses. You may discover that a few well-chosen words, spoken at the right time, can impact your life and relationships positively.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, teach me to speak with wisdom, timing, and grace so that my words bring life and not harm.
