Wicked Words Are The Product of An Evil Heart
June 2, 2022
Commentary
A farmer who tilleth his land and works hard day after day will have plenty of good. On the other hand a man who lives in a dream world either physically or mentally and does not get his work done shows a lack of judgment (v. 11).
Things that wicked people accumulate by devious means often are desired by other wicked people. The wicked feed on one another as they are caught in the net of their own evil nature. In contrast to this, a righteous man is like a plant whose secure root causes it to be green and to bear fruit. He is known for the production of fruit without the infliction of injury on others (v. 12).
The wicked man is trapped by his own words which are the product of an evil heart (v. 13). His speech which is designed to injure others is like a boomerang which eventually comes back at him with devastating consequences. The righteous man avoids these consequences by being careful in his speech. It is certainly true that what a man sows he will reap.
Two contrasts are given between a fool and a wise man (vv. 15-16). The fool thinks his way is right and will not listen to the counsel of others. Also when he is angry he immediately shows it. A wise man, in contrast, is open to advice and does not get upset by insults. He exercises self-control and waits for the proper moment to confront the offender.
LEARN FROM OTHERS MISTAKES RATHER THAN MAKING THEM ALL OUR SELF.
Application
I can think of situations in my life when I spoke too quickly and too sharply? When I am in a similar situation in the future I need to handle it differently.
Proverbs 12:11– 16 (NET)
11 The one who works his field will have plenty of food, but whoever chases daydreams lacks sense.
12 The wicked person has desired the stronghold of the wicked, but the root of the righteous will yield fruit.
13 The evil person is ensnared by the transgression of his speech, but the righteous person escapes out of trouble.
14 A person will be satisfied with good from the fruit of his words, and the work of his hands will be rendered to him.
15 The way of a fool is right in his own opinion, but the one who listens to advice is wise.
16 A fool’s annoyance is known at once, but the prudent conceals dishonor.