Do you think that multiplying words only add to sins?
PROVERBS 10:19
Sin is not ended by multiplying words,
but the prudent hold their tongues.
These days everyone is wise. A person who considers themselves wise is someone who has an opinion on things and isn’t afraid to voice it. I reckon most of us can think of times when we’ve been wounded when someone has spoken rashly about something they didn’t fully understand. But how many of us respond by speaking rashly back? Or wishing we knew what to say so we could have?
I love how this proverb doesn’t just say ‘multiplying words leads to sin’. It actually says ‘sin isn’t ended by multiplying words’. That means that when you encounter sin in someone else, in what they say or do, you’re not solving the sin problem by leaping in with your thoughts on the matter!
If wisdom means looking at reality and living in light of what we see, then looking at the cross shows me two realities: the first is my own sinfulness; the fact that despite thinking I know what’s best I actually haven’t and that my answers to the problems of life have caused more pain. The second is the gentleness, kindness and mercy of Jesus towards me in spite of all that which results in life, reconciliation and peace.
When we think about that reality it’ll shape the way we think about what a wise way to use our words might look like in different situations.
Head: Why does multiplying words only add to sins? Why is holding your tongue prudent (wise)? Do you think there’s a way to speak into situations of sin without adding to it?
Heart: How do you feel when you see someone else acting or speaking foolishly or hurtfully? How do you feel about what this proverb says about holding your tongue? Why?
Hands: Next time you encounter someone speaking rashly, how will you let the cross shape how you listen and speak and respond?
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your gentleness to me in Jesus despite all my sin. Thank you that despite the mess I make you don’t speak harshly to me but with mercy. Please forgive me for all the times I’ve leapt in with harsh words to others in pride. Give me wisdom to be careful in how I speak, patient in how I listen and gracious in how I respond. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
A song to listen to: Mercy Mercy
Ryan Dehnert
This Grow Daily was originally posted as part of the Must See Passages series in 2016. During the School Holidays we take the opportunity to look back at the best of Grow Dailys over the years.
