“When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.”

Proverbs 10:19
I would love for the first words that come to mind at the start of my day to be, “Hallelujah!” Or “Good morning, Lord!” Or “This is the day the Lord has made.” But at best (that is, when my mind at break of day is not swimming with thoughts of what is ahead) I wake up begging the Lord with the words of Psalm 141 to “set a guard over my mouth” and “keep watch over the door of my lips.” Several of Solomon’s proverbs on words would be great morning meditations for me. For you, too?
It is interesting that Solomon does not say in Proverbs 10:19 that “when there are many mean or hurtful or negative words,” sin is unavoidable. Rather, he simply writes that when there are “many words,” there also will be sin. That’s a startling statement for us.
We should be people of measured speech, people who are known for their reserve when it comes to talking. Speech that would show such self-control would be a fitting mark for those who know the risen Lord, the very one whose name we want to honor in all things, including by our communication.



Scripture Focus

Proverbs 10:8-20

Insight

“Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.” (Psalm 141:3)

Bible In A Year

  • Isaiah 29-30
  • Psalm 85
  • Acts 7

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