Speech: The last marker we will take time to check out on our drive through Proverbs is one pertaining to the use of our tongue. James 3:1-11 warns of the uncontrolable nature of the tongue. Nothing can get us in trouble more quickly, or cause more damage than careless words. Yet with our words, we encourage and instruct people and praise God. So, as we might expect Proverbs, this book of practical wisdom, has a great deal to say about our tongues and their use.
Our tongues have the power to destroy or to bless. We destroy by deceitful speech (4:24), by betraying confidences (11:13a), by spreading slander (10:18), which can even separate close friends (16:28), and by stirring up anger (15:1b). So, stay away from such people (20:19). Our tongues also have the power to bless and encourage because it is trustworthy (11:13b), turns away anger (15:1a), and brings delight (15:23). And one of the most beautiful description of a fit world found in all literature is found in 25:11, “Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a word spoken in right circumstances (cf v. 12).
