Wisdom for Our Words

The Pursuit of Wisdom
Wisdom for Our Words

I. Introduction

A. Proverbs 18:21a (NAS) Death and life are in the power of the tongue.

B. Proverbs 29:20 (NAS) Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.

C. James 1:5 (NAS) But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

D. Nehemiah 2:1-5 (NLT) ¹Early the following spring, in the month of Nisan, during the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes’ reign, I was serving the king his wine. I had never before appeared sad in his presence. ²So the king asked me, “Why are you looking so sad? You don’t look sick to me. You must be deeply troubled.” Then I was terrified, ³but I replied, “Long live the king! How can I not be sad? For the city where my ancestors are buried is in ruins, and the gates have been destroyed by fire.” ⁴The king asked, “Well, how can I help you?” With a prayer to the God of heaven, ⁵I replied, “If it please the king, and if you are pleased with me, your servant, send me to Judah to rebuild the city where my ancestors are buried.”

E. Proverbs 17:28 (NAS) Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is considered prudent.

F. Proverbs 26:17 (NLT) Interfering in someone else’s argument is as foolish as yanking a dog’s ears.

G. Proverbs 27:6 (NLT) Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy.

H. Proverbs 25:12 (NLT) To one who listens, valid criticism is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry.

I. Proverbs 26:28 (NLT) A lying tongue hates its victims, and flattering words cause ruin.

J. Proverbs 18:8 (NAS) The words of a whisperer are like dainty morsels, and they go down into the innermost parts of the body.

K. Proverbs 11:12 (NLT) It is foolish to belittle one’s neighbor; a sensible person keeps quiet.

L. Proverbs 15:1 (NAS) A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

M. Proverbs 10:19 (NLT) Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.

N. Proverbs 25:11 (NAS) Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a word spoken in right circumstances.

O. Proverbs 15:4 (NLT) Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

II. Conclusion