To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the proper answer of the tongue. Proverbs 16:1 NIV
King Solomon crafts this proverb as well as the next 6 verses which all invoke the name of the Lord in these maxims. These writings are the product of his own reflection about mankind’s actions and interaction with God. His own personal experience reveals that God weaves His will into the wisdom that falls from his lips.
How does this help us in our day to day speech?
Negatively. Jesus said out of the heart – the mouth will speak. This means that people have to take responsibility for the meditations of their heart. We have to “own” our thoughts- both the good and the bad. Rest assured, that unresolved relational conflict that simmers in the heart will seep out under the breaths of our mouths. Think about the spoken outburst toward other drivers insensitivities. The anger toward them, finds an outlet.
Positively. Life is in the tongue. Peter recognized (reasoned within his heart) that he had little money to help a lame beggar. But he spoke (used his tongue) to the man, “with what I have (what has been happening inside of my heart) rise and walk in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.” The man was healed in response to words that Peter spoke.
Jesus told his followers not to worry about how they will respond to authorities who bring them to court. The Holy Spirit will guide their words.
Take a moment to thank the Lord for the awesome privilege of speaking blessing and life over people, the earth, and our bodies.
Blessings Love y’all.