On Sunday, Josh taught from the book of Proverbs about the power of words. The theme of words looms large throughout the whole redemption story, and the book of Proverbs is full of instruction about specific ways our words can bring life or death (Proverbs 18:21.) Proverbs 10:19 reminds us that “when words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.”
Below are a few (and there are many more!) proverbs that demonstrate some specific ways in which the gears of redemption connect with our words.
Words are powerful:
Death and life are in the power of the tongue.
Proverbs 18:21
Our words can be good and life-giving:
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life.
Proverbs 10:11
Our words can bring relief:
Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.
Proverbs 12:25
Our words can promote justice in our society:
Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute.
Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.
Proverbs 31:8–9
Our words can be sweet to the soul:
Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.
Proverbs 16:24
Our words can deceive.
Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord.
Proverbs 12:22
Our words can divide.
A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends.
Proverbs 16:28
Our words can belittle others.
Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding remains silent.
Proverbs 11:12
Our words can mock people made in God’s image.
Whoever mocks the poor insults his maker; he who is glad at calamity will not go unpunished.
Proverbs 17:5
When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.
Proverbs 10:19
Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.
Proverbs 28:13