The Bible as a whole has a lot to say about the words we speak. Doubtless, we will be confronted many times over as we walk through the remainder of proverbs with cautionary words as to what we say. This becomes so very important. How many words that spilled forth from my own lips would I wish to take back? How many recordings of what others have said that hurt me ring forever in my head?
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Words become like seeds that are planted and can lead to thorny weeds that prick and hurt, delicate flowers with sweet aroma, or towering oaks that provide rest and shade for the weary. What we say matters and matters for years to come. In an instant of time we may crush the heart of someone.
We may go on without knowing what we have done; yet, those words continue to grow bitter inside. No matter how many times you say, “I am sorry” you can never fully repair the damage already done. The opposite is also true, words
can bring healing, hope, love, encouragement, and life. So all of what we have studied over the last few days becomes of utmost importance. Out of the heart are our words poured forth. Where is our heart? How do we guard our words? Do we dwell upon the promises of God? Do we focus on Him so that our words are tempered by the Holy Spirit? Do we take the time to think before we speak? Proverbs 10 also lists some important thoughts about the words of the fool and the words of the wise.
1. Lying flattery will never cover the hatred inside. You must first look to the heart of the matter. When we spread slander, pretending to only “be a friend” who cares—we cause harm that is sometimes unbearable. Avoid lies, slander and gossip. (Proverbs 10:18) (NIV) 18 Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips
and spreads slander is a fool.
2. You can never cover up your sin by prattling on with a thousand words; so best, keep quiet and confess your sin to God and to the one you have injured—not the whole world. Be cautious when using as an illustration that you do not re-injure the one you sinned against. Proverbs 10: 19(NIV) Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.
3. Let your words be like choice silver that is carefully polished; if not, it will show the truth that your heart is bent only on self-exaltation and not on the Gospel of Truth. Proverbs 10: 20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver,
but the heart of the wicked is of little value.
4. Let your words be nourishing and life giving. Proverbs 10: (NIV)21 The lips of the righteous nourish many,
but fools die for lack of sense.
5. Let the fruits of the Holy Spirit’s wisdom flow forth from your mouth. Galatians 5: 22 “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,” Let that be what comes out of your mouth-Proverbs 10: (NIV) 31 From the mouth of the righteous comes the fruit of wisdom but a perverse tongue will be silenced.”
6. When ones heart is right with God, that peace and joy overflows to those around us. Our words become words that find favor with those around us as well. People will want to find the treasure that you have and then you can tell them of Christs love, mercy and grace. Proverbs 10: (NIV)32 The lips of the righteous know what finds favor, but the mouth of the wicked only what is perverse.
So why don’t we do as this song by TobyMac and Speak Life
© 2014 Effie Darlene Barba
New International Version (NIV)
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