Proverbs 31:26: She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness.
Insight
Like Priscilla instructing Apollos, she opens her mouth with wisdom, and the law of kindness is on her tongue. What a contrast to the shrewish and contentious woman, several times contemned in the earlier chapters. Because of the pureness of her heart, her tongue delights to utter words of grace and truth. Who does not prize a season of fellowship with such a rare saint as this! When, instead of petty complaints and wretched, slanderous tales, the lips pour forth words of loving-kindness, and declare their joy in the precious truth that possesses the reins and the soul, conversation becomes profitable indeed; when, by such well-directed wisdom and tenderness, the hearers are edified and refreshed. 1
Application
Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. Ephesians 4:29
T – is it Truthful – (is it a fact, or is it a feeling, opinion, or personal perspective)
H – is it Helpful – (will it help a situation that your directly involved in)
I – is it Inspiring – (and will it help to encourage another person)
N – is it Necessary – (or would be much better if it was left unsaid)
K – is it Kind – (weigh your motivation for communicating, before you say a word)
Motivation
The law of truth was in his mouth, And injustice was not found on his lips. He walked with Me in peace and equity, And turned many away from iniquity. Malachi 2:6
The best words, many times, are the words you chose not to speak. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Father, thank You for teaching me to listen before speaking.
1. Ironside, H. A. (1908). Notes on the Book of Proverbs (p. 482). Neptune, NJ: Loizeaux Bros.
