ODM Daily Inspirational Devotional Messages Bible Verse and Prayers ODM
DCLM Daily Manna
Saturday, October 24, 2026
TOPIC: Power of Graceful Speech
KEY VERSE
“To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men” (Titus 3:2).
Bible Reading:
Titus 3:1-3 (KJV)
1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
2 To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.
3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
MESSAGE
Charles Spurgeon and Dr Joseph Parker were great friends and preachers in the 19th century but had a sharp misunderstanding based on misrepresentation of what Dr. Parker said about the poor condition of children admitted to Spurgeon’s orphanage. It was mis-reported to Spurgeon that Parker had criticised the orphanage itself. Without doublechecking from his friend, Spurgeon used his pulpit to attack Parker in return. Journalists and people flocked to Parker’s church the next Sunday to hear his rebuttal. They were however surprised about the gracious manner Parker handled it. When it was time for Dr. Parker to speak, he slowly got up and went to the pulpit, quietly cleared his throat and said, “Brother Spurgeon is sick today and cannot preach. This is the day when he takes up an offering for his orphans. May I suggest that we take up that offering for him in our church, for he’s doing a great work, and I know all of us would like to have a part in it” the crowd was delighted. The ushers had to empty the collection plates three times. Later that week, there was a knock at Parker’s study. It was Spurgeon. “You know Parker, you have practised grace on me. You have given me not what I deserved, you have given me what I needed.”
Dr. Parker’s graceful comment resonates with Apostle Paul’s words to Titus and the Church in this passage, especially in a world that is now bereft of grace in our speech. Paul encouraged believers to embody and demonstrate qualities that reflect the transforming power of the gospel, namely, respect to authority, obedience and readiness for good deeds. He also warned against slander and encouraged them to be peaceful and gentle.
This timeless exhortation is not just for personal piety but for the purpose of demonstrating the impact and fruit of the gospel through our public behaviour. When we choose gentleness over aggression, peace over conflict, and respect over slander, we mirror the character of Christ and stand as beacons of grace in a tumultuous world. These choices and attitudes serve as testimonies to our faith and powerful demonstrations of the gospel’s work within us.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Your graceful speech reflects the transforming power of the gospel
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Proverbs 9-11
COMMENTARY
1. The Power of Graceful Speech – Dr. Parker’s response to Spurgeon’s attack is a powerful example of graceful speech. Instead of retaliating, he blessed his accuser and even supported his ministry. This is the power of grace—it disarms hostility and transforms relationships.
2. The Call to Gentleness – Paul instructs believers to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, and to be gentle and meek toward all people. This is not weakness; it is strength under control. Gentle speech reflects the character of Christ and demonstrates the transforming power of the gospel.
3. The Witness of Public Behavior – The devotional emphasizes that our public behavior is a testimony to our faith. When we choose gentleness over aggression, peace over conflict, and respect over slander, we demonstrate the reality of the gospel. Our speech and conduct can draw others to Christ or drive them away.
4. The Example of Christ – Jesus is our ultimate example of graceful speech. He was reviled, yet He did not revile in return. He suffered, yet He did not threaten. He spoke words of grace and truth. We are called to follow in His steps.
5. The DCLM Ministry’s Call to Gracious Living – The Deeper Christian Life Ministry emphasizes the importance of gracious speech and conduct. Pastor Kumuyi teaches that believers must reflect the character of Christ in all their interactions. The Daily Manna devotional calls readers to speak with grace and to avoid slander and quarreling.
About DCLM and Daily Manna
The Deeper Christian Life Ministry (DCLM) was founded in 1973 by Pastor Dr. W.F. Kumuyi. From a small Bible study of 15 students in Lagos, it has grown into a global ministry with churches across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond. The ministry emphasizes holiness, prayer, Bible study, and gracious speech.
DCLM Daily Manna is a daily devotional written by Pastor Kumuyi. Each edition provides Scripture reading, exposition, and practical application to guide believers in their daily walk with God. The devotional consistently calls readers to speak with grace and to reflect Christ in their words.
Prayer Reflection
Lord, help me to speak with grace. Forgive me for the times I have spoken evil or quarreled. Give me a gentle and meek spirit. Teach me to respond to hostility with grace, as Dr. Parker did. May my words reflect the transforming power of the gospel. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
