How can Proverbs 26:23 guide us in evaluating the intentions of others? Verse at a glance “Like glaze covering an earthen vessel are burning lips and a wicked heart.” Proverbs 26:23 The picture Solomon paints - Glaze: a thin, shiny coat that hides the rough clay underneath. - Earthen vessel: ordinary, brittle pottery. - Burning lips: eloquent, passionate, even flattering speech. - Wicked heart: motives that are corrupt, self-serving, or deceptive. The lesson: persuasive words can mask a fragile, sinful core. Principles for evaluating intentions • Look past polish – Smooth talk is not proof of sincerity (Proverbs 26:24–25). • Examine consistent fruit – “You will recognize them by their fruit” (Matthew 7:15-16). • Weigh actions against words – Genuine motives show up in behavior (James 2:18). • Seek the Lord’s discernment – “The LORD looks on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). • Give time and space – A façade can’t endure prolonged scrutiny (Proverbs 12:19). Practical checkpoints 1. Listen for exaggeration or manipulation hidden in compliments. 2. Notice how someone treats people who can’t advance their goals. 3. Watch response to adversity; true character surfaces under pressure. 4. Compare private conduct with public speech; integrity is consistent. 5. Keep Scripture central—truth is the standard, not personal preference. Guarding your own heart - Invite the Spirit to expose duplicity in your motives (Psalm 139:23-24). - Choose authenticity over image; let speech flow from a clean heart (Luke 6:45). - Speak truthfully even when it costs; lasting influence rests on integrity (Proverbs 10:9). Reinforcing passages • Proverbs 23:6-7 – Hidden intentions behind hospitality. • Psalm 55:21 – “His speech was smooth as butter, but war was in his heart.” • 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 – False workers masquerade as servants of righteousness. Proverbs 26:23 trains us to prize substance over shine, testing words by the character that backs them and trusting God for the discernment needed to see beneath the glaze. |
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