Watch Your Words. Proverbs 10-14

May the mumbling commence!

Use your words wisely.  Watch your words.  They betray what is in your heart – for good or for evil.  They can do damage that you could never imagine.  Or they can do great good beyond your hopes.  Read some wisdom from the book of Proverbs:

People who wink at wrong cause trouble,

but a bold reproof promotes peace. 

The words of the godly lead to life;

evil people cover up their harmful intentions. 

Hatred stirs up quarrels,

but love covers all offenses. 

Wise words come from the lips of people with understanding,

but fools will be punished with a rod. (10:10-13)

Our words can show that we don’t take things seriously… we wink… we cover up.  Our words can show that we love nothing better than stirring the pot… creating quarrels.  The punishment of the consequences alone is quite enough in these cases.

Or our words can show the tenacity to reprove.  What might first appear to be divisive can lead to peace when done and said with proper intent.  Say things with care and show that you care.  That is the fruit of love bearing from your heart.  Read some more:

Don't talk too much, for it fosters sin.

Be sensible and turn off the flow! 

The words of the godly are like sterling silver;

the heart of a fool is worthless. 

The godly give good advice,

but fools are destroyed by their lack of common sense. (10:19-21)

When it comes to our words, discretion is the better part of valor.  Be sensible and turn off the flow.  It is good advice.  Your words will have more impact when they are fewer and well thought out.  It is common sense that doesn’t seem to be so common now days.  Read some more:

Some people make cutting remarks,

but the words of the wise bring healing. (12:18)

Be careful how you use your words.  They can either cut down or build up.  Let us use our words for healing and peace.  Read some more:

Those who control their tongue will have a long life;

a quick retort can ruin everything. (13:3)

What has taken years to build up can be destroyed with one ill-timed and mindless word.  Speak quickly and rashly and ruin everything.  Read some more:

The advice of the wise is like a life-giving fountain;

those who accept it avoid the snares of death. (13:14)

Life comes from the wisdom rooted in God.  Read on:

The talk of fools is a rod for their backs,

but the words of the wise keep them out of trouble. (14:3)

Trouble never leaves the talk of fools.  Wisdom prevents much trouble from coming.

So listen to the words of a children’s song: “Be careful little tongue what you say, say, say.  The Father up above is looking down with love.  Be careful little tongue what you say.”

Enough mumbling for now…  

Peace Out