Proverbs 11:9-13—”An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered. 10 When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is shouting. 11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked. 12 He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. 13 A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.”
When you get a promotion, upgrade to a bigger car, buy a new house or land, what is the common reaction around you? Are you surrounded by happy family and friends, envious neighbours, blessings from the church brothers or talebearing others? Now switch roles. Your family, friend, colleague or acquaintance achieves success in some area. What is your first reaction – happy, envious, talebearer, waiting to bless?
Proverbs teaches us about the different reactions of our mouths and how it affects us.
– A loose tongue spreads destruction by talking all around. Common sense from the godly protects these folks.
– A hypocritical mouth destroys our neighbours. Through knowledge of the Word, we can overcome and be delivered of this characteristic.
– A righteous mouth when prosperous, results in rejoicing of our friends, family and in general, the city. On the contrary, there are no shouts of joy by all, when the wicked of the city perish.
– An upright mouth brings praise to its city. But a wicked mouth overthrows this praise.
– A mouth that is void of wisdom causes hatred among its neighbours. Wisdom teaches us to control our tongue, based on our emotions; therefore, a man of understanding holds his peace.
– A talebearing mouth cannot control itself and hence relays all secrets. However, he that has a faithful spirit retains the confidence of the person.”
Take a deep look down your memory lane. Do you judge others by their success? Do you make mean-spirited slander or talk devoid of wisdom? Do you have a quiet discretion?
Do what Jesus would do. Avoid loose talk, hypocrisy, wicked dealings or talk, talk void of wisdom, and a tale-bearing mouth. Instead, before you talk; employ common sense, wisdom, uprightness and righteousness. Build yourself up in the Word (let it be your guide) and retain a faithful Spirit. Why? To receive fruits of the Spirit. (Gal 5:22-23)—But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,gentleness, self-control…
