Connect Job 37:20 with Proverbs 10:19 on the wisdom of measured words. Grounded in Reverence: Job 37:20 “Should He be told that I want to speak? Would a man ask to be swallowed up?” • Job senses the peril of careless words before the Almighty. • God’s omniscience means nothing escapes His notice (Psalm 139:4). • Holy fear urges silence unless words are needed and true (Isaiah 40:13-14). Wisdom of Restraint: Proverbs 10:19 “When words abound, transgression is inevitable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” • More talk, more risk of sin. • Deliberate brevity marks a wise heart (Proverbs 17:27-28). • Restraint protects relationships and reputation. Threads That Bind the Texts • Reverence for God (Job) fuels restraint with people (Proverbs). • Both passages teach that unchecked speech invites judgment (Matthew 12:36). • The fear of the LORD is the beginning of every wise word (Proverbs 9:10). Practical Steps for Measured Words • Pause and pray before speaking—“Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth” (Psalm 141:3). • Examine motive: will these words honor God and edify others? (Ephesians 4:29). • Listen first; be “quick to hear, slow to speak” (James 1:19). • Accept that silence can be faith in action, trusting God to vindicate (1 Peter 2:23). • Memorize key verses on speech; let Scripture shape reflexes (Colossians 3:16). Further Scriptural Echoes • Proverbs 13:3—“He who guards his mouth protects his life.” • Ecclesiastes 5:2—“Do not be quick with your mouth… God is in heaven, and you are on earth.” • James 3:5-6—the tongue’s disproportionate power to destroy. • Psalm 19:14—“May the words of my mouth… be pleasing in Your sight.” Takeaway for Today Stand before God with Job’s awe, speak among people with Solomon’s restraint, and let every word reveal a heart aligned with heaven. |
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