What is the meaning of Proverbs 10:31? The mouth of the righteous “The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom” (Proverbs 10:31a). • Scripture consistently pictures righteous people as those who have been made right with God and now submit their tongues to Him. “The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life” (Proverbs 10:11), and “the tongue of the wise adorns knowledge” (Proverbs 15:2). • Because the heart has been cleansed, words are different (Matthew 12:34). They encourage, instruct, and build up (Ephesians 4:29). • James echoes this: “Out of the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, this should not be” (James 3:10). Righteous mouths choose the blessing. Brings forth wisdom “Brings forth” suggests fruit that keeps appearing. • Wisdom is more than clever advice; it reflects God’s own character (Proverbs 8:35). • When a believer speaks, others hear guidance that leads to life, much like “the teaching of the wise is a fountain of life” (Proverbs 13:14). • Colossians 3:16 urges, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly… with all wisdom.” As that word saturates the heart, wisdom naturally flows outward in everyday conversation. But a perverse tongue “…but a perverse tongue” (Proverbs 10:31b). • “Perverse” speech twists truth, mocks righteousness, or spreads corruption (Proverbs 6:12). • A heart set on self inevitably produces words that poison (Romans 3:13–14). • Proverbs 17:20 warns that “one with a perverse tongue falls into trouble”. This isn’t merely bad manners; it is rebellion against God. Will be cut out “…will be cut out.” The imagery is blunt: God will silence the source of corruption. • Psalm 52:4–5 pictures the Lord tearing down the deceitful tongue. • Jesus promises personal accountability: “On the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word” (Matthew 12:36–37). • Ultimately, the unrepentant stand outside God’s kingdom, for “everyone who loves and practices falsehood” is excluded (Revelation 22:15). Divine justice removes the destructive voice to protect His people and uphold His honor. Application for today • Guard the heart because words flow from it (Proverbs 4:23). • Practice daily intake of Scripture so wisdom is ready when you speak (Colossians 3:16). • Before speaking, ask: Will this word point others to Christ or to self? (Philippians 1:27). • Keep short accounts with God; confess sinful speech quickly (1 John 1:9). • Let love govern every conversation (1 Peter 3:10; James 1:26). summary Proverbs 10:31 contrasts two kinds of speech arising from two kinds of hearts. The righteous, transformed by God, consistently produce words that nourish and guide others in wisdom. The perverse, driven by self and sin, spew twisted talk destined for God’s judgment. Our tongues reveal our spiritual condition; therefore, surrender your speech to the Lord, let His Word dwell richly within, and allow every conversation to reflect His wisdom. |
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