I have been spending a long time in Proverbs lately. Honestly, I have spent the last week in 10 verses of Proverbs. I'm not staying there because I'm so holy and I'm digging in deep; I'm staying there because I'm having a hard time learning the lesson. My hope is that if I pray more and keep focused on this simple lesson, something will start to change. This morning I wrote a specific verse in my journal: "A fool’s mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul," (Proverbs 18:7, ESV). My words can get me into trouble because I talk too much sometimes. I think that's the Christian sin that we like to avoid saying is actually a sin. But I'm convinced that it is. Something struck me a few weeks ago: I pray for wisdom in every decision-making area of my life except when it comes to the words I choose to say on a daily basis. Sure, if I have an important meeting or something I pray that God will give me wise words, but I don't pray that on a daily basis. My prayers are changing from here on out, though. I want my words to be wise. I don't want to blather like the fool whose words become a snare to his soul. So I give you permission to challenge me if you hear me say something that is foolish. Hold me accountable; I need it!
Well, somehow I stumbled upon this paragraph you wrote while scrolling through the facebook homepage. Seth, thank you for your confession “before the brethren”. I hope you understand how much I love and esteem you, my brother, and for my part, I believe my role will continue to be that of giving you grace and support, as I truly need it from you, knowing my struggle is the same one.