Proverbs 12:13-20

Proverbs 12:13-20 deal with a person's speech.

12:13--The evil are ensnared by the transgression of their lips,
but the righteous escape from trouble.

12:14--From the fruit of the mouth one is filled with good things,
and manual labor has its reward.

12:15--Fools think their own way is right,
but the wise listen to advise.

12:16--Fools show their anger at once,
but the prudent ignore an insult.

12:17--Whoever speaks the truth gives honest evidence,
but a false witness speaks deceitfully.

12:18--Rash words are like sword thrusts,
but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

12:19--Truthful lips endure forever,
but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

12:20--Deceit is in the mind of those who plan evil,
but those who counsel peace have joy.

What are some abiding truths affirmed in this section of Proverbs?

1. A person's speech can enhance his/her influence for good or get him/her into great trouble (verses 13, 19). Many believe that what they say is inconsequential, but the Bible teaches that one's speech has profound consequences.
2. One who is wise listens to the advice of godly people (verse 15). Someone once said that God gave us one mouth and two ears to teach us to listen twice as much as we speak. We can benefit greatly from the thoughts and words of those who seek to serve God.
3. Speaking the truth is a high priority in the eyes of God (verses 17, 19). Lying or deceit is very displeasing to God, and therefore leads to one's ruin. Whether it be in a court case or in a private conversation, it is very important to speak the truth.
4. Gentle, encouraging speech has the power to heal and give great joy to the hearer (verses 18, 20). Godly speech promotes peace in the heart, among people, and among communities and nations. "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" (Matthew 5:9).

John Willis