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Proverbs 13
Author: Gary Evans

After college graduation, our daughter Rebecca spent over a year with a mission team in Uganda, Africa. Within a short time of her return to the U.S., she observed sadly one day that our lives here are so full of “clutter” and lived at such a hectic pace. She stated, “No wonder we cannot be still and know God—-we cannot even be still.”

Among other gems, the blessing of discipline is found throughout this chapter—whether it be the tongue, our lives, or our money.

Verse 3 admonishes this way: “He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin. Though in a later chapter (17:28), I smile when I read, “Even a fool is thought to be wise if he keeps silent.” I believe discipline begins with our tongue. If our words are reckless, bitter, and cutting (always looking for an opportunity to put someone down thinking it lifts us up), there is no way Jesus can live in our hearts. Remember, what comes from our mouths originates in the heart/mind.

For some of us just being still with a spirit of quietness (and being silent), is a challenge (I know); and we must draw on the power of the Holy Spirit to help us.

Spend one day a month, then two, then one per week, then daily meditating on words from a Psalm or Proverb or Jesus in quietness and solitude. If you will do this consistently (begin with only 5 minutes), you will find that other areas of your life begin to refocus and become more disciplined and your days more fulfilling.

May God bless you as you allow Him to calm your spirit and fill your life with more discipline, purpose, and hope.