Readings in Proverbs
Proverbs – Day 21
Day 21: The power of the tongue – part 2 Once a word is spoken, it cannot be taken back. We can only ask for forgiveness. There is much in […]
Day 21: The power of the tongue – part 2
Once a word is spoken, it cannot be taken back. We can only ask for forgiveness. There is much in these proverbs about reaping what we sow with our words. Our words can entrap us (Prov. 12:13), or satisfy us with good (Prov. 12:14); they create a rod for our backs (Prov. 14:3), or they promote true knowledge (Prov. 15:2).
Amongst the most powerful of proverbs is this: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (Prov. 15:1).” Gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:23). A gentle tongue brings life. In situations of tension and anger, answer with softness. May the Lord help us to take up with seriousness the truth of these proverbs.
The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the mouth of the upright delivers them.
– Prov. 12:6
An evil man is ensnared by the transgression of his lips, but the righteous escapes from trouble.
– Prov. 12:13
From the fruit of his mouth a man is satisfied with good, and the work of a man’s hand comes back to him.
– Prov. 12:14
Whoever guards his mouth preserves his life; he who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.
– Prov. 13:3
By the mouth of a fool comes a rod for his back, but the lips of the wise will preserve them.
– Prov. 14:3
A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
– Prov. 15:1
The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of fools pour out folly.
– Prov. 15:2
A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.
– Prov. 15:4
The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of fools.
– Prov. 15:7
Father, please forgive us for when we say things that are harsh, critical and biting. Many times our words have caused others to stumble. Our words have caused anger or resentment. Please forgive us in Jesus’ Name.
We are ambassadors of Christ Jesus and so we desire to use our words in a way that honours You. May we set a trap over our mouths that we might not sin against You.
When we are frustrated or angry, let our words be gentle. Let them be a tree of life.
In Jesus’ Name we pray and in the power of the Holy Spirit,
Amen.
– Graham Barnes
