Readings in Proverbs
Proverbs – Day 23
Day 23: The power of the tongue – part 4 James 1:26 says, “If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this […]
Day 23: The power of the tongue – part 4
James 1:26 says, “If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.” A hot-tempered man will find he ruins relationships and is alone. A wise person restrains his tongue (Prov. 17:27). Better to keep our mouths closed than to speak unworthy things (Prov. 17:28).
Stagnant water is putrid water, but the words of the wise are a life-giving brook of bubbling water (Prov. 18:4). God is their source and may He give us such life-giving words!
These proverbs warn us against being rash with our words. May we be especially serious in our words about, or to, God. Often we sing songs declaring our loyalty to Him, but we are foolish unless we take with utmost seriousness the words that we sing or vow (Prov. 20:25). Ecclesiastes 5:5 says: “It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay.”
Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.
– Prov. 17:27
Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.
– Prov. 17:28
The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters; the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.
– Prov. 18:4
A fool’s mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul.
– Prov. 18:7
From the fruit of a man’s mouth his stomach is satisfied; he is satisfied by the yield of his lips.
– Prov. 18:20
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.
– Prov. 18:21
It is a snare to say rashly, “It is holy,” and to reflect only after making vows.
– Prov. 20:25
Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.
– Prov. 21:23
O God, You are the Ruler of all Heaven and earth. You see and judge the heart of all people, including every careless, rash and sinful word that we have said.
Lord Jesus, we believe Your words of life. As those who belong to You, help us to bridle our tongue. Help us never to speak unworthy words. Forgive us when we do speak rashly. Every word matters and may our every word be honourable to You.
We pray this to the praise of Your Name,
Amen.
– Graham Barnes
