WISDOM OF WORDS (4)

“The TONGUE of the WISE uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness” – Proverbs 15:2

Every person has a choice in thoughts and tongue, to either flow in the WISDOM of WORDS or pour forth foolishness: “The TONGUE of the WISE uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness” (Pro.15:2). We have the responsibility to speak wise words, and avoid foolishness. Let’s reflect on which foolish uses of words we’re most prone to and trust the Lord to delete them from our lives.

Foolish words create strife: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (v.1). Foolish communication causes anger and contention, leading to fractured or ruptured relationships: “A fool’s lips enter into contention, and his mouth calls for blows” (Pro.18:6). Christians must be zealous to sustain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Jh.17:21; Eph.4:3). God ranks unity very high and so must we, not using our lips to break the Body. We must repent of speaking foolishly and giving an ear to foolish speech.

Foolish flatter: “A lying tongue hates those who are crushed by it, and a flattering mouth works ruin” (Pro.26:28). Flattery includes excessive and insincere praise, especially with the ulterior motive of furthering one's selfish interests. Flattery may not be malicious, but it’s always as dangerous as lying. Flattery is deceptive as it may allow people to put confidence in skills that they do not possess: “A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet” (Pro.29:5)

Fools gossip: “A talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter” (Pro.11:13). Whoever repeats what is not worthy of repeating is guilty of gossip. Manipulative gossip has broken many relationships and destroyed countless lives. Gossip can be terribly damaging: “Debate your case with your neighbor, and do not disclose the secret to another; lest he who hears it expose your shame, and your reputation be ruined” (Pro.25: 9-10). Ending gossip involves both gossiper and listener: “He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets; therefore, do not associate with one who flatters with his lips” (Pro.20:19). If the whisperer has no listener, gossip will cease: “Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; and where there is no talebearer, strife ceases” (Pro.26:20).

Fools Lie: “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal truthfully are His delight” (Pro.12:22). Believers in Christ are called to speak truth by Him who is the Truth (Jh.14:6). God hates “A false witness who speaks lies and one who sows discord among brethren” (Pro.6:19). God never lies; neither should His people!

Fools despise instruction and abhor correction, but the wise cherish both (vv.5, 7). Proverbs 12:1 says, “Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.” The wise receive and heed correction because it deepens wisdom: “Rebuke is more effective for a wise man than a hundred blows on a fool” (Pro.17:10).