Proverbs 18 emphasizes the power of words. One’s speech holds the power of life and death, meaning they can provide healing, encouragement, and wisdom, or cause harm, division, and ruin (v. 21). The wise speak with restraint and discernment, while fools reveal their ignorance through careless talk (vv. 6, 7, 8, 13). 

How many problems between people could be avoided simply by refusing to engage in gossip and/or slandering others? Heed God’s wisdom! 

A fool’s lips enter into contention, and his mouth calls for blows. A fool’s mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul. The words of a talebearer are like tasty trifles, and they go down into the inmost body (vv. 6-8, New King James Version).

The chapter contrasts the prudent with the foolish, portraying the fool as self-centered, uninterested in understanding, and quick to speak (vv. 1, 2). In contrast, the wise person seeks knowledge and exercises good judgment (vv. 4, 15, 18). Additionally, the chapter warns against partiality and encourages careful listening before making decisions (vv. 5, 17). 

Have you known anyone who had to have everyone’s attention all the time? How about one who is so very quick to voice their opinion, only to be let down once they are fact-checked? I certainly don’t want to be known as one who is constantly, boisterously, and impetuously speaking before I think. Heed God’s wisdom! 

A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; he rages against all wise judgment. A fool has no delight in understanding, but in expressing his own heart (vv. 1-2).

The 18th chapter concludes with a reflection on the value of loyal relationships: “A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (v. 24). This verse highlights the blessing of faithful companionship grounded in love and trust!

I desire to be that friend whom others can rely upon. I also wish to gain from the valuable contributions of others. If there is one thing I am sure of, it is that I do not know everything! May God guide us all into a more wisdom-filled existence, and may we use our speech to communicate with, and about, others more faithfully. Let’s heed God’s wisdom!!

The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe (v. 10).