Three Problems from Proverbs 18

In my reading through the Proverbs, the eighteenth chaptergot my attention. Here are three from that chapter:

"The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels;they go down into the inner parts of the body" (v. 8).

"If one gives answer before he hears, it is his follyand shame” (v. 13).

"He who states his case first seems right, until theother comes and examines him” (v. 17).

They all have to do with conversation, and they hit threegreat problems in the church today: gossip, not listening, and listening toonly one side. All of these can be corrected by a simple desire and act of thewill. However, to act properly means that there will be no more “choicemorsels,” no “ego talking,” and no choosing up sides.

Here are two New Testament sentences which will help us inour decision:

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths,but only what is helpful for building others up according to theirneeds, that it may benefit those who listen” (Ephesians 4:29).

“My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quickto listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:9).

Our speech should be for others, and our listening should befor others.

Written October 1986.

This post coordinates with today's reading in the Tothe Word! Bible Reading Challenge. If you are not in a daily reading plan,please join us at TotheWord.com. We would love to have you reading with us.

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