Proverbs 21:23 Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps his soul from troubles. Instead of simply commanding with supreme authority that men should keep their mouths and tongues, he graciously condescends to annex reward and blessings for its own sake. "Keepeth his soul from troubles." In keeping of God's commandments there is great reward. In proportion as any faculty is important in the use and rightful application of it, so is the neglect of it an evil, and the result of its perversion fatal in the same degree. The government of the tongue, on this principle, assumes at once its due importance. Consider the benefits that must accrue to society from the judicious use of this powerful organ on the part of those who in God's providence are fitted to exert influence over their fellows. Consider the Christian governing his tongue, with especial reference to the law and will of God. Of the ten commandments two are assigned, one in each table, to this needful admonition. "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain"; "Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour." A careless, unreflecting use of the holy name betrays a trifling and unstable heart. But with reference to his neighbour, the Christian has the greatest need of caution as to the government of his tongue. What irreparable injury a severe remark, whether carelessly or wickedly whispered against the character of another, is sure to produce. It may be our duty to speak to the prejudice of others, but we must always be very sure that the duty is clear. In cases where the conduct of our neighbour appears doubtful, we are bound to give him the benefit of that doubt, and to feel towards him, and to speak of him, accordingly. When a Christian is reviled and calumniated, how is he to act? He should "in patience possess his soul." One topic remains — the responsible office of the tongue, employed in preaching the gospel of salvation to perishing sinners. (Thos. Nolan, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.WEB: Whoever guards his mouth and his tongue keeps his soul from troubles. |
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