Proverbs 11-13

“From the fruit of their lips people enjoy good things, but the unfaithful have an appetite for violence” (13:2). The proverbs urge us to be wise in our behavior, recognizing that our daily choices in areas like honesty, hard work, generosity, and keeping promises affect our lives and countless others. Our words, like our actions, have the power to destroy or build up (12:6). Reckless, angry speech can lead to violence (13:2), bloodshed (12:6), and emotional wounds (12:18).

“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing” (12:18). God calls us to use our words as He does, to bring encouragement, hope, and healing to those who around us.