Morning Devotional 022326 Children of God

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

February 23, 2026

Proverbs 15:1-9

1 A sensitive answer turns back wrath, but an offensive word stirs up anger. 2 The tongue of the wise enhances knowledge, but the mouth of a fool gushes with stupidity. 3 The LORD’s eyes are everywhere, keeping watch on evil and good people. 4 Wholesome speech is a tree of life, but dishonest talk breaks the spirit. 5 A fool doesn’t like a father’s instruction, but those who heed correction are mature. 6 Great treasure is in the house of the righteous, but the gain of the wicked brings trouble. 7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge, but the hearts of fools have none. 8 The LORD detests the sacrifices of the wicked, but favors the prayers of those who do right. 9 The LORD detests the path of the wicked, but loves those who pursue righteousness.

Good Morning! The Lord loves those who pursue righteousness. 

I love the Common English Bible’s language in verse 2: the mouth of a fool gushes with stupidity. In the NIV and NRSV, the word is folly, but that is certainly less direct than stupidity. 

I never liked someone calling another stupid because it is hurtful and devalues the person, but gushing with stupidity is not person-centric; it is identifying a poor choice of words. When I was teaching 3rd and 4th graders, I had a poster in my classroom to help my students and me think before we spoke. 

While my students were young and developing proper classroom etiquette, it is a great reminder for all of us. We should use our words to uplift, not put down. We are all still students in the school of life. Proverbs provides guidance to help us on our path of righteousness. 

God of Wisdom, you bless us abundantly! It is too easy to deflate and damage others. Help us to work on kindness so that we can all make the journey together. It is a joyful day when all are welcome. Thank you. We love you. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.

Thought for the day: Honor God and respect others when I respond with love and grace.

Treat everyone as a blessed child of God.  Pastor Liz