Proverbs 13:1-4 – Tongue and Deed
Like it or not, we have to learn things the hard way, through discipline and bearing the consequences for our actions. We aren’t perfect and in order to learn, we need to be corrected. But the proud man hates correction. He thinks he is always right and needs no rebuke.
Wisdom also means speaking well. If a Christian is walking with God, his tongue will pour out what is Godly. He will be using his words for good, and even if it has little or no effect on those around him, he himself will be encouraged and strengthened by the fruit he is bearing through his speech. The unfaithful also bear fruit by their speech, but it is not good. The violence that they love and encourage returns upon their own head.
Because of the tremendous results that come from the use of our tongue, we have to guard it, for our own good, let alone the glory of God and the good of others. Think before we speak; consider our words, their substance, tone, time, place, and audience. How much more do we sin by speaking than by keeping silent! It takes strength to reign our tongues in, and daily we should be praying for that strength and asking forgiveness for when we have failed to guard our tongue.
Verse 4 is another contrast between the lazy and diligent. The lazy man wants the rewards of hard work without doing any work. He wants to be wise without study, and rich without effort. He may even desire to be a Godly man, to forsake sin and enjoy the happiness of God’s people. But he has nothing, because he has desire without effort. He would gladly be a Christian, if it cost him no trouble. How often have you heard somebody say, “I wish I could believe like you do”, but their soul continues on the same. If you’re going to work hard at anything, work hard in at loving and obeying God. To expect blessing without diligence is to deceive yourself.
Questions
- How can we guard our tongue?
- How can you work harder at serving God?
Prayer Points
- Pray that we would guard our tongues.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.