Chasing Truth™: Read the Bible Cover to CoverSample

Worthy Conversations

Proverbs 21

The Book of Proverbs is different from other Bible books that are narrative or thematic in style. The Proverbs are simply a collection of wise sayings, in no particular order. As we read these wise sayings in Proverbs, themes surface in our thinking. For example, we read many references to guarding our tongue, similar to the one in this week’s reading:

 “He who guards his mouth and his tongue,
Guards his soul from troubles” (Proverbs 21:23, NASB).

We might ask ourselves, “Is the writer of Proverbs trying to curb our freedom of speech?” We hear similar debate on many political fronts these days. The answer is obvious; he is merely reminding us that words have consequences.

What kinds of words do we guard against? This passage warns against “quarrelsome words.” 

 “Better to live on the corner of a roof than to share a house with a nagging wife” (Proverbs 21:9, CSB). 

This is only one category of words to avoid. We learn from other passages to avoid angry words, or words that discourage and belittle others. We should avoid any conversation that violates the principle of loving others.

What kind of guard should we put on our mouth? The Psalmist set a high standard:

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer”
(Psalm 19:14, ESV).

Does God actually see words? Maybe angry words appear red and peaceful words blue? We don't know—but we do know God is aware of everything we say (Psalm 139:4). All our words and conversations should be worthy of Him.

How does it benefit us when we guard our mouth? Look back at the first verse mentioned above—when we guard our mouth, we guard our souls from troubles.