Wisdom for Speech, Words, and Work

The material we went over in our last lesson emphasized the practical application of wisdom in daily life, focusing on the contrasts between righteousness and wickedness, the rewards of fearing the Lord, and the impact of integrity and kindness in relationships and behavior.

Note that I am having you read the book of Proverbs in chronological order so that you will become familiar with the text itself. However, because of the way that similar ideas are sprinkled throughout various parts of the text, I am grouping the various themes together in each lesson to ensure we cover all the major themes contained in the book.

Our previous study of various proverbs, characterized by their use of various forms of Hebrew poetry (like parallelism, imagery, metaphor, brevity, and pithiness), highlighted the clear outcomes of wise versus foolish choices, stressing that righteousness leads to stability, peace, and blessing, while wickedness results in harm and instability.

Practical themes such as the power of words, the value of humility, and the importance of honest living were explored, offering actionable insights for believers striving to align their lives with God's wisdom.

That study underscored the idea that wisdom is not only a matter of understanding but a call to live in a certain way that honors God and benefits others.

In our lesson today, we will examine the value of wisdom as it is used in various contexts. In other words, the more practical use of wisdom in everyday life.

I. Wisdom for Speech and Words

1. The Power of Words: Life vs. Death

Words have the power to shape lives, either by fostering growth and healing or by causing harm and destruction. Proverbs vividly illustrates this contrast, encouraging thoughtful speech.

Scriptural References

There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, But the tongue of the wise brings healing.
- Proverbs 12:18 (Antithetical Parallelism - contrast)

Insight: Careless speech harms deeply, like a sword cutting flesh, while wise words are soothing and restorative.

Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
And those who love it will eat its fruit.
- Proverbs 18:21 (Synthetic Parallelism - expands)

Insight: Speech is a powerful tool, with consequences that reflect the intentions behind it—whether life-giving or destructive.

Like a club and a sword and a sharp arrow
Is a man who bears false witness against his neighbor.
- Proverbs 25:18 (Emblematic Parallelism - explains)

Insight: False words are equated to physical weapons, emphasizing the damage dishonesty can inflict.

A false witness will not go unpunished,
And he who tells lies will perish.
- Proverbs 19:9 (Synonymous Parallelism - repeats)

Applications

• Reflect before speaking, considering the potential impact of your words.
• Practical Step: Practice intentional encouragement by speaking one kind or affirming word to someone when the opportunity presents itself.

2. Speaking Truth, Kindness, and Restraint

Proverbs highlights the value of truthfulness, kindness, and restraint in speech, showing how these qualities contribute to peace and harmony in relationships.

Scriptural References

Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord,
But those who deal faithfully are His delight.
- Proverbs 12:22 (Antithetical Parallelism - contrasts)

Insight: Truthfulness honors God and builds trust, while dishonesty offends Him and harms relationships.

A gentle answer turns away wrath,
But a harsh word stirs up anger.
- Proverbs 15:1 (Antithetical Parallelism - contrasts)

Insight: The way we respond in tense situations can either diffuse conflict or escalate it.

By forbearance a ruler may be persuaded,
And a soft tongue breaks the bone.
- Proverbs 25:15 (Synthetic Parallelism and Hyperbole - expands/exaggerates)

Insight: Patience and gentleness are powerful tools of influence, often more effective than force or aggression.

Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity
Than he who is perverse in speech and is a fool.
- Proverbs 19:1 (Antithetical Parallelism - contrast)

Applications

• Practice responding calmly in difficult situations, prioritizing gentleness and truth over reactionary speech.
• Practical Step: Pause for a few moments before replying in a heated discussion, ensuring your words align with God's wisdom.

3. The Destructive Nature of Gossip and Lying

Gossip and dishonesty are destructive habits that erode trust and damage relationships. Proverbs consistently warns against these behaviors, emphasizing their harmful effects.

Scriptural References

He who goes about as a slanderer reveals secrets,
Therefore do not associate with a gossip.
- Proverbs 20:19 (Synthetic Parallelism - expands)

Insight: Gossip reveals a lack of trustworthiness, and those who engage in it should be avoided.

For lack of wood the fire goes out,
And where there is no whisperer, contention quiets down.
- Proverbs 26:20 (Emblematic Parallelism - explains)

Insight: Gossip fuels conflict, much like wood fuels a fire, while avoiding it leads to peace.

A perverse man spreads strife,
And a slanderer separates intimate friends.
- Proverbs 16:28 (Synthetic Parallelism - expands)

Insight: Gossip not only creates division but also destroys valuable relationships.

The north wind brings forth rain,
And a backbiting tongue, an angry countenance.
- Proverbs 25:23 (Emblematic Parallelism - explains)

Applications

• Avoid gossip by redirecting conversations that involve speaking negatively about others.
• Practical Step: Before sharing any information about someone, ask yourself: "Is this true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?"

Discussion Questions

1. How can we better control our speech?

Answer: Controlling our speech requires intentionality, self-discipline, and reliance on God's wisdom.

Suggestions:

• Reflect on James 1:19: "But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger,"
• Consider practices such as journaling emotions instead of voicing them impulsively or praying for guidance before difficult conversations.

2. How do our words reflect our hearts?

Explanation: Speech is a mirror of the heart. Proverbs and Jesus' teaching in Matthew 12:34 ("For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart") emphasize that words reveal our character and priorities.

Suggestions:

• Reflect on recent conversations—what do they reveal about your inner attitudes and values?
• Discuss how regular prayer, Scripture meditation, and confession can help shape the heart toward producing life-giving words.

Advice for the Every Day life:

A. This week, intentionally evaluate your speech. Identify one habit to improve—whether it's avoiding gossip, practicing patience, or speaking more encouragement.

B. Pray daily for God to help you align your words with His wisdom, remembering Proverbs 21:23: "He who guards his mouth and his tongue, guards his soul from troubles" By speaking with wisdom, truth, and grace, you can bring life, healing, and God's love into your everyday interactions.

II. Wisdom in Work and Diligence

1. The Dangers of Laziness

Explanation: Proverbs frequently warns against laziness, describing it as a destructive habit that leads to poverty, shame, and missed opportunities. Laziness is contrasted with the diligence and industriousness that characterize wise living.

Scriptural References

⁶Go to the ant, O sluggard,
Observe her ways and be wise,
⁷Which, having no chief,
Officer or ruler,
⁸Prepares her food in the summer
And gathers her provision in the harvest.
- Proverbs 6:6-8 (Emblematic Parallelism - explains)

¹⁰"A little sleep, a little slumber,
A little folding of the hands to rest"—
¹¹Your poverty will come in like a vagabond
And your need like an armed man.
- Proverbs 6:10-11 (Synthetic Parallelism - expands)

A lazy man does not roast his prey,
But the precious possession of a man is diligence.
- Proverbs 12:27 (Antithetical Parallelism - contrasts).

Applications

• Recognize the areas in your life where procrastination or inaction is holding you back.
• Practical Step: Set specific, measurable goals for your tasks, breaking larger projects into manageable steps to ensure progress.

2. Diligence and Its Rewards

Proverbs consistently associates diligence with success, prosperity, and respect. Hard work is portrayed as a pathway to personal fulfillment and a means of glorifying God.

Scriptural References

Poor is one who works with a negligent hand,
but the hand of the diligent makes rich.
- Proverbs 10:4 (Antithetical Parallelism - contrasts)

He who tills his land will have plenty of bread,
but he who pursues worthless things lacks sense.
- Proverbs 12:11 (Antithetical Parallelism - contrasts)

The plans of the diligent certainly lead to advantage,
but everyone who is in a hasty comes surely to poverty.
- Proverbs 21:5 (Antithetical Parallelism - contrasts)

Do you see a man skilled in his work?
He will stand before kings;
he will not stand before obscure men.
- Proverbs 22:29 (Synthetic Parallelism - expands)

Applications

• Commit to developing skills that will increase your effectiveness in your work.
• Practical Step: Spend time each week improving one area of your professional or personal skill set through learning or practice.

3. Wise Stewardship of Time and Resources

Explanation: Proverbs highlights the importance of managing time and resources wisely, emphasizing that success comes from intentional effort rather than idle behavior. Stewardship involves using what God has entrusted to us for His glory and the good of others.

Scriptural References

The sluggard does not plow after the autumn,
So he begs during the harvest and has nothing.
- Proverbs 20:4 (Emblematic Parallelism - explains)

³⁰I passed by the field of the sluggard
And by the vineyard of the man lacking sense,
³¹And behold, it was completely overgrown with thistles;
Its surface was covered with nettles,
And its stone wall was broken down.
- Proverbs 24:30-31 (Emblematic Parallelism - explains)

Honor the Lord from your wealth
And from the first of all your produce;
- Proverbs 3:9 (Synthetic Parallelism - expands)

Applications

• Evaluate how you're spending your time and resources. Look for areas where you can be more intentional and disciplined.
• Practical Step: Create a weekly plan that prioritizes work, rest, and giving, ensuring that your time and resources align with God's purposes.

Discussion Questions

1. What does Proverbs teach about work?

Answer: Proverbs teaches that work is a means of honoring God and contributing to the well-being of others. Hard work and diligence bring rewards such as stability, prosperity, and respect, while laziness leads to poverty and regret. Work should be approached as a calling and a stewardship responsibility, with intentionality and excellence.

2. How do we work "as for the Lord" (Colossians 3:23)?

Answer: Working "as for the Lord" means recognizing that all work, no matter how mundane, is an act of worship when done with integrity and excellence. It involves prioritizing God's values in our tasks—honesty, diligence, and serving others—and seeking to glorify Him through our efforts. This perspective transforms work from being a chore into an opportunity to serve God and others.

Advice for Everyday Life

This week, reflect on your approach to work. Identify one area—time management, skill development, or resource stewardship—where you can apply the wisdom of Proverbs. Commit to making a small, actionable change that aligns your work habits with God's principles.

Pray for strength and guidance, remembering: "Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established." (Proverbs 16:3, Synthetic Parallelism - expands).

By embracing diligence and stewardship, you can experience the rewards of hard work and honor God through your efforts.

III. Practical Takeaway Lessons

1. Work with Excellence and Purpose

Your work, whether at home, in your career, or in service to others, is an opportunity to glorify God. Proverbs reminds us that diligence leads to rewards, while laziness results in loss.

• Proverbs 16:3: "Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established." (Synthetic - expands).
• Practical Action: Approach each task with excellence, regardless of its size or visibility. Commit your work to the Lord, knowing it reflects your faith and integrity.

2. Plan and Prioritize Wisely

Wise stewardship of time and resources is essential for productivity and success. Avoid the trap of procrastination or neglect, and instead, focus on intentional planning.

• Proverbs 21:5: "The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty." (Antithetical - contrasts).
• Practical Action: Take 15 minutes at the start of each day or week to organize your priorities, ensuring you're making the best use of your time and energy.

3. Be Faithful in the Small Things

Success and growth often come through faithfulness in seemingly minor responsibilities. As Proverbs teaches, diligence in small, consistent efforts leads to lasting results.

• Proverbs 24:30-31: "I passed by the field of the sluggard, and by the vineyard of the man lacking sense; and behold, it was completely overgrown with thistles; its surface was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down." (Emblematic - explains).
• Practical Action: Identify one small task or habit you've been neglecting and commit to addressing it this week, whether it's tidying a space, learning a new skill, or completing an unfinished project.

By applying these principles in your everyday life, you'll cultivate a heart of diligence, honor God with your efforts, and reap the rewards of wise and intentional living.