True Wisdom – James 3:13-18
26. True Wisdom uses gracious and discerning speech.
Proverbs 16:20-24; Proverbs 29:11; Colossians 4:6
Whoever gives thought to the [matter] will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord. The wise of heart is called discerning, and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness. Good sense is a fountain of life to him who has it, but the instruction of fools is folly. The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious and adds persuasiveness to his lips. Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. (Proverbs 16:20-24)
A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back. (Proverbs 29:11)
Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. (Colossians 4:6)
Study it Out
- How do these passages counteract the idea that we should simply speak our minds without holding back? What might you be able to “consider” when taking the time to measure your words before speaking?
- What is the difference between being gracious and being manipulative? What should be the ultimate motivation of our speech? Who ultimately has the power to change people’s opinions?