Devo for 4/05/2026 - Message by Pastor Clint

Pastor Clint continued the series “Jesus Changes Everything” with a powerful Easter message.  He started off by stating the obvious:  Most of us walked into the service carrying some things God did not want us to carry.  We all go through life with a “backpack” full of things of the world.  Things that weigh us down like shame, wounds, regrets, unforgiveness, and the list goes on.  But Jesus came to earth in human form and willingly gave His life for us so we did not have to carry the burden of this stuff!

In talking about things we carry, if we carry them long enough, we get used to them.  Our backpack begins to feel “normal.”  This backpack of junk can become our identity.  

One of the most life-altering things we carry with us are words that have been spoken over us, or to us.  These words can build us up or tear us down.  But words are very powerful, and we should not underestimate the impact they have had on our lives.

The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21

This proverb describes the impact words can have.  We can hurt others, or be hurt by simple words used in a way that destroys lives.  

Words can also bring life into us and others.  In fact, throughout the Scriptures, we are encouraged to speak life into people, to encourage, to edify.  Ephesians 4:29a tells us to “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up.”  

We also have to understand that we are responsible for our words.  Not only on earth, but also when we go home to be with Jesus! We have to answer for what comes out of our mouths!

A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.  But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.  For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:35-37

So, if you have been hurt by words, take it to the Lord.  These words are packed with lies; seek the truth from God.   Get a brother to pray over you! Remember this: words spoken to hurt you cannot stick if you do not receive them!

If you have spoken words over others that have hurt them, repent and make it right! Take it to God!

Most of all, get into the habit of speaking positive, encouraging, and edifying words over others!  Especially your loved ones!  Make our April Memory Verse one of your go-to verses!

A word spoken at the right time is like gold apples in silver settings. Proverbs 25:11

Don’t forget to invite God into your day!

Topic for Study

• Knowledge

  • Proverbs 1:7

  • Proverbs 2:10

  • Philippians 3:8

April Memory Verse: 

Judges 6:12

“A word spoken at the right time is like gold apples in silver settings.”