In what ways can speaking rightly impact our relationships with others? Setting the Scriptural Scene Proverbs 23:16 – “Yes, my inmost being will exult when your lips speak what is right.” In context, a loving father (and, by extension, our heavenly Father) says His very core thrills when a child chooses words that are true, pure, and wise. How Right Speech Shapes Relationships • It sparks joy in others – Wise, truthful words lift hearts. Think of the instant warmth you feel when someone speaks genuine encouragement (cf. Proverbs 25:11). – God Himself “exults” when we speak rightly, and people made in His image feel a reflection of that delight. • It reveals inner character – Verse 15 ties righteous lips to a wise heart. Friends, spouses, children, co-workers quickly see whether our hearts are ruled by wisdom or folly through the way we talk (Luke 6:45). • It builds trust and credibility – “Righteous lips are the delight of kings, and they love him who speaks right” (Proverbs 16:13). – When others know our word can be trusted, relational walls crumble and partnership flourishes. • It diffuses tension instead of inflaming it – “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1). – In marriage, parenting, or team meetings, calm, measured speech lowers defenses and invites cooperation. • It guards against sin-spread – “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths” (Ephesians 4:29). – Gossip and slander fracture community; pure speech protects unity. • It models Christ to listeners – “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6). – People get a taste of the gospel’s flavor when our conversation mirrors our Savior’s compassion and truth. Connected Verses for Deeper Reflection – Proverbs 10:11 – “The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life.” – Proverbs 12:18 – “The tongue of the wise brings healing.” – James 3:9-10 – with the same tongue we bless God and curse people; right speech resolves that contradiction. Practical Takeaways for Everyday Conversation • Pause and pray before speaking—invite the Holy Spirit to guide each word. • Choose clarity over vagueness; honesty over embellishment. • Affirm whenever possible; correction should be gentle, specific, and seasoned with hope. • Replace criticism behind someone’s back with intercession for that person. • Keep short accounts: apologize quickly when words have wounded. • Memorize verses on the tongue (Proverbs 15:1; 16:24; Psalm 19:14) to reshape default responses. When our lips “speak what is right,” homes warm, friendships deepen, workplaces become safer, and—most importantly—the Father’s own heart rejoices. |
    |