Christian Living

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Proverbs 16:23 - The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent, and their lips promote instruction.

A matured person can be measured by the words he use. I love to be with people who are happy and talk positive because their attitude rubs off on me. In return, I make it a point to make other people happy and share positive aspects in life. How can we share happiness and positive outlook in life with our words and the way we talk? Let me share five simple ways:

1. If we have nothing good to say, better to keep silent.

Some people talk to impress others, and in the process say bad things about other people. Sarcastic remarks, jokes and unethical stories are inserted in conversations just to get attention. Proverbs 16:23 pointed out we should be “prudent” in our words. Silence is better than spewing poisonous words.

2. Select words to use.

Matthew 12:34 states,” For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks”. If our words are full of gossips, curses and negative expressions, it reflects our personality. Proverbs 4:24 is more direct when it states, “Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.”

3. Do not speak to confuse

Words may be interpreted in different ways. The intention of the speaker may be noble but it may not be to the listener. Proverbs 16:23 further admonish us to use our words to “promote instruction.” In politics words are obfuscated so that the speaker may not be held liable in the future. And we will know true leaders by their words. Either they inspire and give instructions or they confuse the listeners.

4. Do not talk about other people

To be “in” to a group, some persons make fun of others or make stories at the expense of those who are not present. Talking about other people is gossiping, and Proverbs 16:28 states, “ a gossip separates close friends.”

5. Be gentle

Sometimes when we think we are right and the rest of the people are wrong. In times like this, we raise our voice above the discussion. We feel we have the moral ascendancy to do so. Most of the times, this attitude leads to arrogance, and we become insensitive to others. Proverbs 15:1 reminds us, “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” Even if we are correct and we have the truth, but our words have no love in it, then it is meaningless.

We should be conscious of how we speak. Our words should reflect that we are of God, inspiring others and letting them experience the fullness of life. Being prudent in words is our testimony to the world, and God will be glorified through us.

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