What is the meaning of Proverbs 13:2?

From the fruit of his lips

• “From the fruit of his lips” paints speech as a fruitful tree—words carry seeds that grow outcomes.

• Scripture consistently links wise speech with blessing: “The tongue of the righteous is choice silver” (Proverbs 10:20), “A gentle answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1).

• Jesus affirms this principle: “For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34). Good words sprout from a heart grounded in God’s truth, producing life-giving fruit.

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A man enjoys good things

• Right words yield tangible and relational benefits.

– Peaceful relationships (Proverbs 16:24).

– Favor with God and people (Proverbs 3:3-4).

– Personal satisfaction: “Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from trouble” (Proverbs 21:23).

• “Enjoys” underscores that blessing is not merely abstract; righteous speech often brings practical provision, encouragement, and joy.

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But the desire

• A sharp contrast—speech versus desire. Words flow from the heart; desires expose what rules the heart (James 1:14-15).

• When a person treasures evil, even silent longings bend toward harm. Luke 6:45 reminds us that evil stored inside erupts in evil outside.

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Of the faithless

• “Faithless” refers to those who reject covenant loyalty to God. Their unbelief divorces them from wisdom’s source (Psalm 14:1).

• Without fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7), their inner cravings wheel toward selfish gain and disregard for others.

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Is violence

• Violence here is both outcome and appetite. What begins as corrupt desire becomes destructive action (Proverbs 4:16-17).

• Cain’s story illustrates the progression: desire—envy—murder (Genesis 4:5-8).

• New Testament echoes: “Where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice” (James 3:16).

• God warns that unchecked sinful desire wounds the speaker and those around him (Proverbs 11:19).

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summary

Righteous words spring from hearts aligned with God and yield tangible blessings; corrupt desires in unbelieving hearts ferment into violence. Proverbs 13:2 calls us to cultivate godly speech rooted in faith, knowing that what fills our mouths foretells the harvest we and others will reap.