Have you ever stopped to consider the immense power of words? In Proverbs 18, we delve into the profound impact our words can have on our lives and the lives of those around us.
Reconnect: Throughout the book of Proverbs, we’ve explored the timeless wisdom of King Solomon, learning valuable lessons for righteous living and navigating life’s complexities.
Proverbs 18 delves deep into the significance of our words, highlighting their potential to build up or tear down, to bring life or to cause destruction. Let’s uncover the wisdom it offers in harnessing the power of our speech.
(Summarized and continued after scripture)
Contrast the Upright and the Wicked
1He who separates himself seeks his own desire,
He quarrels against all sound wisdom.
2A fool does not delight in understanding,
But only in revealing his own mind.
3When a wicked man comes, contempt also comes,
And with dishonor comes scorn.
4The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters;
The fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.
5To show partiality to the wicked is not good,
Nor to thrust aside the righteous in judgment.
6A fool’s lips bring strife,
And his mouth calls for blows.
7A fool’s mouth is his ruin,
And his lips are the snare of his soul.
8The words of a whisperer are like dainty morsels,
And they go down into the innermost parts of the body.
9He also who is slack in his work
Is brother to him who destroys.
10The name of the LORD is a strong tower;
The righteous runs into it and is safe.
11A rich man’s wealth is his strong city,
And like a high wall in his own imagination.
12Before destruction the heart of man is haughty,
But humility goes before honor.
13He who gives an answer before he hears,
It is folly and shame to him.
14The spirit of a man can endure his sickness,
But as for a broken spirit who can bear it?
15The mind of the prudent acquires knowledge,
And the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
16A man’s gift makes room for him
And brings him before great men.
17The first to plead his case seems right,
Until another comes and examines him.
18The cast lot puts an end to strife
And decides between the mighty ones.
19A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city,
And contentions are like the bars of a citadel.
20With the fruit of a man’s mouth his stomach will be satisfied;
He will be satisfied with the product of his lips.
21Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
And those who love it will eat its fruit.
22He who finds a wife finds a good thing
And obtains favor from the LORD.
23The poor man utters supplications,
But the rich man answers roughly.
24A man of too many friends comes to ruin,
But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Summary Key Points:
- Words as Weapons: The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. This verse underscores the immense impact our words can have, either bringing life and encouragement or death and destruction.
- Seeking Understanding: Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions. Here, we’re reminded of the importance of humility and listening to others, rather than always asserting our own views.
- Choosing Wisdom: The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out. True wisdom comes from a humble and teachable heart, eager to learn and grow in understanding.
- Seeking Refuge in the Lord: The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. In times of trouble and uncertainty, we find refuge and security in the Lord’s presence and protection.
Call to Action:
- Speak Life: Purposefully choose to speak words of encouragement, kindness, and affirmation to those around you. Your words have the power to uplift and inspire.
- Listen with Empathy: Practice active listening, seeking to understand others’ perspectives before expressing your own opinions. Show empathy and compassion in your interactions.
- Seek God’s Guidance: Turn to the Lord in prayer, seeking His wisdom and guidance in your speech and interactions. Allow His word to shape the words you speak and the attitudes of your heart.
As we reflect on the wisdom found in Proverbs 18, may we be mindful of the power of our words and the impact they have on ourselves and others. Let us strive to speak life, seek understanding, and find refuge in the Lord’s presence.
Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the wisdom found in your word, especially in Proverbs 18. Help us to guard our tongues and use our words to bring life and encouragement to those around us. Grant us wisdom and discernment in our speech, and may our words reflect your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.