Wisdom of the Tongue
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The concept of the "Wisdom of the Tongue" is deeply rooted in biblical teachings, emphasizing the power and significance of speech in the life of a believer. The Bible provides extensive guidance on how one's words can reflect wisdom, bring healing, and glorify God, while also warning against the potential harm that can be caused by careless or malicious speech.

Biblical Foundations

The Bible frequently addresses the importance of wise speech. Proverbs, in particular, is replete with verses that highlight the value of speaking wisely. Proverbs 15:1 states, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." This verse underscores the power of words to either diffuse or escalate conflict, suggesting that wisdom in speech can promote peace and understanding.

Proverbs 18:21 further emphasizes the power of the tongue: "Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit." This passage illustrates the profound impact that words can have, capable of bringing life or causing destruction. The wise use of the tongue, therefore, is a matter of life and death, both spiritually and relationally.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues to build on the theme of wise speech. James 3:5-6 offers a vivid metaphor: "In the same way, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest ablaze. The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body." James warns of the destructive potential of the tongue, urging believers to exercise control and wisdom in their speech.

Ephesians 4:29 provides a positive directive: "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen." This verse encourages believers to use their words to edify others, reflecting the grace and love of Christ.

Practical Application

The wisdom of the tongue is not merely theoretical but has practical implications for daily life. Believers are called to be mindful of their speech, ensuring that it aligns with the teachings of Scripture. This involves speaking truthfully, as emphasized in Proverbs 12:22 : "Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight."

Moreover, the wisdom of the tongue involves listening before speaking, as advised in James 1:19 : "My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger." This approach fosters understanding and patience, allowing for more thoughtful and wise communication.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The ability to speak with wisdom is closely tied to the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit, which includes qualities such as kindness, gentleness, and self-control—all essential for wise speech. By yielding to the Spirit, believers can cultivate a tongue that reflects God's wisdom and love.

Conclusion

The wisdom of the tongue is a vital aspect of Christian living, with the potential to influence both personal relationships and one's witness to the world. Through the guidance of Scripture and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, believers are equipped to use their words in a manner that honors God and blesses others.
Subtopics

Personification of Wisdom

Statecraft: Wisdom In

The Wisdom of God is One of his Attributes

The Wisdom of God: All Human Wisdom Derived From

The Wisdom of God: Beyond Human Comprehension

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in His Counsels

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in His Foreshadowing Events

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in His Works

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: His Saints

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Actions

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Afflictions of Saints

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Heart

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Infirmities of Saints

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Minutest Matters

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Most Secret Things

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Time of Judgment

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Want of Saints

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Way of Saints

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Wicked

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Words

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Knowing: The Works of the Wicked

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Redemption

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Searching the Heart

The Wisdom of God: Exhibited in Understanding the Thoughts

The Wisdom of God: Incomparable

The Wisdom of God: Infinite

The Wisdom of God: Mighty

The Wisdom of God: Nothing is Concealed From

The Wisdom of God: Perfect

The Wisdom of God: Saints Ascribe to Him

The Wisdom of God: should be Magnified

The Wisdom of God: The Gospel Contains Treasures of

The Wisdom of God: The Wicked Question

The Wisdom of God: Underived

The Wisdom of God: Universal

The Wisdom of God: Unsearchable

The Wisdom of God: Wisdom of Saints is Derived From

The Wisdom of God: Wonderful

Wisdom

Wisdom Literature

Wisdom of Aholiab

Wisdom of Bezaleel

Wisdom of Daniel

Wisdom of Ethan, Heman, Chalcol, and Darda

Wisdom of Ezra

Wisdom of God

Wisdom of Hiram

Wisdom of Jesus

Wisdom of Joseph

Wisdom of Moses

Wisdom of Other Skilled Artisans

Wisdom of Paul

Wisdom of Solomon

Wisdom of the Magi (Wise Men from the East)

Wisdom of the Princes of the Tribe of Issachar

Wisdom of Women

Wisdom: Prayer for Spiritual

Wisdom: Spiritual, from God

Wisdom: Spiritual: Unclassified Scriptures Relating to

Wisdom: Worldly

Related Terms

Wise-hearted (10 Occurrences)

Wise-men (4 Occurrences)

Over-wise (1 Occurrence)

All-wise (1 Occurrence)

Discerning (29 Occurrences)

Mocker (11 Occurrences)

Conceit (14 Occurrences)

Advisers (22 Occurrences)

Scorner (12 Occurrences)

Suggestions (9 Occurrences)

Prudent (40 Occurrences)

Magicians (16 Occurrences)

Stupid (20 Occurrences)

Shrewd (14 Occurrences)

Scoffer (11 Occurrences)

Discernment (43 Occurrences)

Skillful (42 Occurrences)

Skill (26 Occurrences)

Discretion (20 Occurrences)

Brutish (12 Occurrences)

Consultation (8 Occurrences)

Arioch (6 Occurrences)

Senseless (22 Occurrences)

Magi (4 Occurrences)

Skilled (44 Occurrences)

Ability (34 Occurrences)

Discern (49 Occurrences)

Arts (48 Occurrences)

Simple (40 Occurrences)

Purposes (67 Occurrences)

Suggestion (25 Occurrences)

Advice (52 Occurrences)

Cunning (43 Occurrences)

Plans (55 Occurrences)

Kill (310 Occurrences)

Dark (234 Occurrences)

Diligently (85 Occurrences)

Men (18419 Occurrences)

Meaningless (32 Occurrences)

Prudence (9 Occurrences)

Bar-jesus (1 Occurrence)

Beth-lehem (49 Occurrences)

Barjesus (1 Occurrence)

Bezalel (10 Occurrences)

Builds (18 Occurrences)

Compared (29 Occurrences)

Counsellors (21 Occurrences)

Conjurers (7 Occurrences)

Counselors (21 Occurrences)

Aholiab (5 Occurrences)

Admonition (8 Occurrences)

Ar'i-och (4 Occurrences)

Astrologers (9 Occurrences)

Sensible (15 Occurrences)

Standards (14 Occurrences)

Season (101 Occurrences)

Star (16 Occurrences)

Designs (118 Occurrences)

Craftsmen (22 Occurrences)

Behaviour (115 Occurrences)

Bethlehem (49 Occurrences)

Consult (27 Occurrences)

Succeed (47 Occurrences)

Discipline (63 Occurrences)

Mary (50 Occurrences)

Amen (74 Occurrences)

Builder (33 Occurrences)

Puts (197 Occurrences)

Companion (44 Occurrences)

Sense (195 Occurrences)

Keepeth (60 Occurrences)

Assemblies (48 Occurrences)

Blindness (7 Occurrences)

Sayings (134 Occurrences)

Becometh (82 Occurrences)

Considered (80 Occurrences)

Slow (43 Occurrences)

Determined (89 Occurrences)

Wisdom of the Righteous
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