How can we guard against becoming a "worthless man" as in Proverbs 16:27? The Sobering Portrait in Proverbs 16:27 “A worthless man digs up evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire.” Recognize the Warning Signs • Deliberate pursuit of evil—he “digs up” what is buried, searching for dirt to use. • Destructive speech—his words torch reputations, relationships, and hope. • Restlessness—evil and gossip become a pastime (cf. Proverbs 6:16-19). Guarding the Heart: First Line of Defense • Keep watch over inner motives (Proverbs 4:23). • Invite the Lord to “search me and know my heart” (Psalm 139:23-24). • Replace secret delight in someone’s downfall with genuine love (1 Corinthians 13:6). Curating Our Thought Life Philippians 4:8 gives a practical filter: • Whatever is true • Whatever is honorable • Whatever is just • Whatever is pure • Whatever is lovely • Whatever is commendable • If anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things. Choosing these inputs starves the appetite for digging up evil. Taming the Tongue Before It Ignites • Remember: “The tongue is a fire” (James 3:6). • Commit to Ephesians 4:29—“Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up others…”. • Pause—run every sentence through the questions: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? • Speak blessings deliberately (Proverbs 10:11). Choosing Life-Giving Company • Walk with the wise and you will become wise (Proverbs 13:20). • Avoid chronic scoffers who feed the habit of digging up evil (Psalm 1:1-2). • Seek accountability—invite trusted believers to correct you when words drift toward scorching fire. Daily Practices That Build the Opposite Character • Start the day in Scripture, letting God’s Word set the tone for speech. • Record three ways to encourage or serve others; act on them. • When tempted to share damaging information, pray for the person instead. • End the day with confession and thanksgiving, clearing the slate before sleep. The Goal: A Refreshing, Not Scorching, Presence Proverbs 10:21 says, “The lips of the righteous feed many.” As Christ shapes heart, mind, and mouth, we trade the fire that burns for the fountain that refreshes—and distance ourselves from the path of the worthless man. |
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