Proverbs 12
The Power of Words: What Proverbs 12 Teaches Us About Speech
Two Paths, Two Tongues: Righteous vs. Wicked
As we spent time reading and reflecting on Proverbs 12, one thing stood out loud and clear: our words matter—deeply. This chapter paints a stark contrast between the righteous and the wicked, and it does so primarily through the lens of speech.
When we look at Proverbs 12, we notice that nearly every verse points to how people use their words, either to build up or tear down. The chapter can be divided into two columns: one describing the righteous and their wise, healing speech, and the other showing how the wicked use words that deceive, wound, or trap.
Let’s start by unpacking the “wicked column.” Verse 5 tells us the advice of the wicked is deceitful, and verse 6 adds that their words lie in wait for blood. In verse 13, evildoers are trapped by their sinful talk. Then verse 18 comes in strong: the words of the reckless pierce like swords—how many of us have been on the receiving end of words that cut like that? Verse 19 and verse 22 take it further, warning that a lying tongue lasts only for a moment and the Lord detests lying lips.
What’s powerful (and sobering) is that these aren’t just “bad people” we’re talking about—this can be us, too. When we speak recklessly, without intention or mindfulness, we can do real damage. It reminded us of a moment in a couples ministry gathering, when one husband shared about how a casual comment during an argument turned out to be the real problem—not the issue at hand, but the way he said what he said. That stuck with us. We realized: our words can wound even the people we love the most when they come out careless or reactive.
It’s easy to say, “Oh, I didn’t mean it that way,” or, “I wasn’t thinking.” But that’s actually the problem. Proverbs calls us to think before we speak—because our words reveal what’s happening in our hearts. Which leads us to the other side of this coin.
The Righteous Tongue: Healing, Truthful, Intentional
Thankfully, Proverbs 12 doesn’t just warn us—it also gives us a beautiful picture of what our words can be when we walk in wisdom. Verse 14 says, from the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things. That’s encouraging! It brings to mind Matthew 15:18, where Jesus teaches that what comes out of the mouth flows from the heart. It’s not just about words—it’s about what's going on inside us.
We often say, “The mouth reveals what the heart conceals.” That’s why a stray comment—meant as a joke or not—can be so telling. It’s not just what was said in the moment; it’s a reflection of something deeper.
Verse 15 tells us the way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice. And here’s where we felt challenged again: not all voices in our lives should carry the same weight. It’s wise to seek counsel—but from safe, godly, and trusted people. We’ve learned this the hard way. Not everyone who has something to say is someone worth listening to.
We’re not looking for approval from everyone—we’re already approved by God and secure in that. But we are called to walk in community with people who love us enough to tell us the truth.
And then there’s verse 18 again—but this time, from the other side: the tongue of the wise brings healing. We’ve all experienced that, haven’t we? A kind word in a low moment. A blessing we didn’t expect. Encouragement that came just when we needed it. That’s the power of intentional, Spirit-led speech.
Verse 22 wraps it up beautifully: The Lord delights in those who are trustworthy. And verse 25 reminds us that a kind word cheers up the heart. Sometimes the simplest thing we can do is offer kindness—and it makes all the difference.
Let’s Speak With Intention
As we close, here’s what we’re taking away from Proverbs 12: our words are a window into our hearts—and a powerful tool in our relationships. So before we speak, let’s ask:
Is this true?
Is this necessary?
Will this build someone up?
Does this reflect the love of God?
Let’s be people who bring healing with our words, not harm. Let’s be slow to speak, quick to listen, and intentional with the way we communicate. We encourage you—go back and read Proverbs 12 for yourself. Look at both “columns.” Ask the Lord: What are You showing me today? Then let Him shape your heart—and your words.
