Death and Life are in the power of the Tongue

A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; He rages against all wise judgment. A fool has no delight in understanding, But in expressing his own heart [a fool thinks his opinion is worth expressing, even when no one is asking for it]. When the wicked comes, contempt comes also [the wicked hold other in contempt- harsh criticism and fault finding are pillows on which the wicked rest]; And with dishonor comes reproach. The words of a man's mouth are deep waters [a man's words flow from the depths of his being, and reveal a lot about his character and spiritual self]; The wellspring of wisdom is a flowing brook. It is not good to show partiality to the wicked, Or to overthrow the righteous in judgment. A fool's lips enter into contention, And his mouth calls for blows [a fool is readily offended or readily picks up the offences of others, and uses his mouth to stir up negative emotions]. A fool's mouth is his destruction, And his lips are the snare of his soul [unbeknownst to the fool is that his attempts to paint others in a bad light are actually destroying him spiritually]. The words of a talebearer are like tasty trifles, And they go down into the inmost body. He who is slothful in his work Is a brother to him who is a great destroyer. [the talebearer ruins reputations and the one that is not working along side others to accomplish the group's mission is actually undermining the mission and helping the wicked one destroy.] The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe. The rich man's wealth is his strong city, And like a high wall in his own esteem. [the righteous know that it is not their wealth or position that is their security, but their relationship with the Lord.] Before destruction the heart of a man is haughty, And before honor is humility. He who answers a matter before he hears it, It is folly and shame to him. [Arrogance is the source of destructive behavior, and people that are quick to jump to negative conclusions about others will be shamed.] The spirit of a man will sustain him in sickness, But who can bear a broken spirit? . . . Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit. [The results of our words is unbelievably destructive and is unbelievably life-giving. You will reap what you dish out with your words, for the bad or for the good] (Pro 18:1-21).

Yours in Him,

Pastor B.