THE FOUR TONGUES (4)

(Message by Tanny Keng)

0. Introduction

a) What we say probably affects more people than any other action we take. It is not surprising, then, to find that Proverbs gives special attention to words and how they are used. Four common speech patterns are described in Proverbs. The first two should be copied, while the last two should be avoided.

1. The Careless Tongue

a) Those with this speech pattern are filled with lies, curses, quick-tempered words - which can lead to rebellion and destruction.

b) Text references: Proverbs 10:18; 10:32; 11:9; 12:16; 12:18; 15:4; 17:9; 17:14; 20:19: 25:23


@1. 18 Whoever hides hatred has lying lips, And whoever spreads slander is a fool. (Proverbs 10:18 NKJV)

@2. 32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, But the mouth of the wicked what is perverse. (Proverbs 10:32 NKJV)

@3. 9 The hypocrite with his mouth destroys his neighbor, But through knowledge the righteous will be delivered. (Proverbs 11:9 NKJV)

@4. 16 A fool’s wrath is known at once, But a prudent man covers shame. (Proverbs 12:16 NKJV)

@5. 18 There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, But the tongue of the wise promotes health. (Proverbs 12:18 NKJV)

@6. 4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, But perverseness in it breaks the spirit.(Proverbs 15:4 NKJV)

@7. 9 He who covers a transgression seeks love, But he who repeats a matter separates friends. (Proverbs 17:9 NKJV)

@8. 14 The beginning of strife is like releasing water; Therefore stop contention before a quarrel starts. (Proverbs 17:14 NKJV)

@9. 19 He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets; Therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips. (Proverbs 20:19 NKJV)

@10. 23 The north wind brings forth rain, And a backbiting tongue an angry countenance. (Proverbs 25:23 NKJV)


The End ...

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