What does Proverbs 31:26 teach about the power of our words? Setting the Scene Proverbs 31 paints the portrait of a woman whose life is shaped by reverence for the Lord. In verse 26 the spotlight moves to her speech: “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” Key Truths in One Sentence • When she speaks, wisdom flows. • Her counsel is reliable, steady, and loyal to God’s standards. Wisdom on Her Tongue • Words reflect character: her heart is saturated with God’s wisdom (Proverbs 2:6). • Speech is intentional: she opens her mouth—she doesn’t blurt or babble. • Tone and content align: “faithful instruction” (ḥeseḏ torah) combines kindness with truth, marrying grace and guidance. Characteristics of God-Honoring Speech 1. Rooted in Scripture – Psalm 37:30: “The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom; his tongue speaks what is just.” 2. Marked by Faithfulness – 1 Peter 4:11: “If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the oracles of God.” 3. Life-giving rather than life-draining – Proverbs 18:21: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” 4. Controlled and measured – James 3:2: “If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle his whole body.” 5. Seasoned with kindness – Colossians 4:6: “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.” The Ripple Effect of Our Words • Shape households: wise counsel steers family decisions. • Influence communities: faithful instruction nurtures trust. • Mirror our devotion: godly speech testifies to a living relationship with Christ. Practical Takeaways for Today • Fill the heart first—daily Scripture reading equips the tongue with wisdom. • Pause before speaking—ask, “Will this reflect faithful instruction?” • Pair truth with tenderness—firm guidance delivered kindly wins a hearing. • Guard against idle talk—Proverbs 10:19 warns, “When words are many, sin is unavoidable.” • Encourage deliberately—speak life into others; a single sentence can redirect a soul. Related Scriptures That Reinforce the Lesson • Proverbs 15:23 – “A man finds joy in giving an apt reply.” • Ephesians 4:29 – “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth.” • Psalm 19:14 – “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight.” Closing Encouragement God entrusts His people with tongues capable of spreading wisdom and faithful instruction. Align speech with His Word, and each conversation becomes an instrument of grace and truth. |
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