Proverbs 10:11-21
Q.1. What did Solomon say about the right and wrong uses of the tongue? How did he back up his teaching? What kinds of communication should the godly avoid? – (Prov.10:11-21)
James confirmed – The tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell (Jms.3:6). Solomon observed something similar. The tongue and speech can give vent to deceit, violence, and anger. Lips can lie and spread slander (Prov.10:11-12, 18-21). However – the mouth of the righteous can be a fountain of life that brings wisdom and blessing to countless people (Prov.10:11). Solomon observed that – Love covers all transgressions (Prov.10:12). How does this work? James explained it this way – 19 My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth and one turns him back, 20 let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins (Jms.5:19-20). This requires a good grasp of the Gospel, which states that all believers have had ALL THEIR TRANSGRESSIONS forgiven by the Lord (Col.2:13-14). We must extend that which we have received to others during their time of need. Solomon warned – with the mouth of the foolish, ruin is at hand … the income of the wicked is punishment … he who ignores reproof goes astray (Prov.10:14, 16-17). He also taught the need to avoid lying lips and slander (Prov.10:18). In fact – when there are many words, transgression is unavoidable (Prov.10:19). The righteous use their tongues to build up and bless many (Prov.10:21).