Proverbs 10: Good Words
JESUS POWERFULLY UNDERSCORED the immense power of words to shape our destiny. Speaking of the final judgment, he said, "By your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned" (Mt 12:37). He was reflecting a similar idea found in Proverbs 18:21: "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit."
Proverbs 6 displayed the awesome power for evil which words have. But they also have an awesome power for good. For all that, words are not magic; their power lies not so much in themselves as in the characters of those who speak them and those who hear them. You'll uncover some of the ways you can wisely fashion words for wholesome ends.
Warming Up to God
Would you describe yourself as a person of few or many words? Explain.
Read Proverbs 10. »
Discovering the Word
- How are wise words and foolish words contrasted (vv. 8, 10, 13-14, 18-21, 31-32)?
- The phrase "chattering fool" is used in verses 8 and 10. What images does it bring to mind?
- Verse 19 insists that the mere quantity of words produces sin.
- When have words been like "choice silver" (v. 20) and nourished you (v. 21)?
- Sometimes we are able to say just the right thing in a situation. When have your lips known what was fitting (v. 32)?
Applying the Word
- Now that you have surveyed what the proverbs say about good and bad speech, which do you think is easier—to rid yourself of unwholesome speech habits or to build wholesome speech habits? Explain.
- What strategy might you employ to reduce or eliminate your wordiness? (Hint: don't ignore the help that a friend or spouse can provide in these settings.)
- Who do you need to encourage with good words?
Responding in Prayer
Thank God for those who have nourished you with good words. Pray that you will be like them.
For Further Study
Wisdom: Making Life Work by Bill Hybels