What behaviors in Proverbs 6:12 should we avoid in our daily lives?

Setting the scene

“A worthless person, a wicked man, walks with a perverse mouth.” (Proverbs 6:12)

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Key terms unpacked

• “Worthless person” – someone who rejects God-given purpose and lives without moral weight (cf. 1 Samuel 2:12).

• “Wicked man” – one whose character is bent toward evil (Psalm 1:4-6).

• “Perverse mouth” – twisted, dishonest, or corrupt speech (Proverbs 4:24).

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Behaviors to avoid

• Speaking dishonestly—lying, exaggerating, withholding truth (Proverbs 12:22; Ephesians 4:25).

• Using corrupt or vulgar language—words that demean, mock, or tempt others to sin (Ephesians 5:4).

• Manipulative talk—flattery, half-truths, double meanings crafted to gain advantage (Proverbs 26:24-26).

• Slander and gossip—spreading harmful stories or rumors (Proverbs 10:18; James 4:11).

• Continual complaining or cynicism—words that foster discontent and unbelief (Philippians 2:14-16).

• Stirring up conflict—speech that provokes anger, division, or strife (Proverbs 15:18; 16:28).

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Why these behaviors matter

• Words reveal the heart (Matthew 12:34).

• The tongue carries power “of life and death” (Proverbs 18:21).

• Unchecked speech invites judgment (Matthew 12:36) and erodes personal witness (Colossians 4:5-6).

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Practical steps for daily life

1. Examine motives before speaking (Psalm 139:23-24).

2. Choose words that build up, not tear down (Ephesians 4:29).

3. Practice silence when tempted to gossip or complain (Proverbs 17:28).

4. Memorize and meditate on Scriptures about godly speech (Psalm 119:11).

5. Seek accountability—invite trusted believers to correct careless words (Proverbs 27:6).

6. Replace corrupt talk with praise and thanksgiving (Psalm 34:1).

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Encouraging reminders

• The Holy Spirit empowers self-control over the tongue (Galatians 5:22-23).

• Confession and repentance cleanse defiling speech (1 John 1:9).

• God delights in truthful, gracious words: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD” (Psalm 19:14).