31 Day Challenge - Day 18

Is God concerned with what we say and how we say it? We saw yesterday that "a truly wise person uses few words" (Prov. 17:27). But what about the words we do use? Is wisdom a part of our speech? How do our conversations affect our relationships?

 In Proverbs 18, with it's 24 verses, 12 of those verses have words that describe a type of  communication. Let's look at the verses that describe communicating with wisdom:  "Wise words are like deep waters" (18:4). Flipping a coin can end arguments; it settles disputes between powerful people" (18:18). Wise words satisfy like a good meal; the right words bring satisfaction" (18:20).

What about the verses that don't refer to the use of wisdom in speech: "Unfriendly people care only about themselves; they lash out at common sense" (18:1). "Fools have no interest in understanding; they only want to air their opinion" (18:2). "Fools' words get them into constant quarrels: they are asking for a beating" (18:6). "The mouths of fools are their ruin; they trap themselves with their lips" (18:7). "Rumors are dainty morsels that sink deep into one's heart" (18:8). Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish" (18:13). "The first to speak in court sounds right - until the cross-examination begins" (18:17). "Flipping a coin can end arguments; it settles disputes between powerful people" (18:18). Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars" (18: 19). "The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences" (18:21).

Reading Proverbs 18 makes me consider my own conversations. Am I speaking with purpose? Am I slow to speak and quick to listen? Am I using my words wisely? Is God pleased with what I have to say all of the time? Something to consider!

NOTE: If you have had difficulty leaving a comment, please try again.