The wise in heart are called discerning, and gracious words promote instruction. Proverbs 16:21 NIV
People of high intelligence and learning enjoy the benefits of their intellectual development. Their reputations are enhanced and their value to the community is well known. But Solomon’s words concerning a person who is “wise in heart” speak of more than just intelligence.
With these words, Solomon indicates a person who is both factually and emotionally discerning. His saying, “gracious words promote instruction” signifies the value and effectiveness of carefully considered words; words that come from a place of love and concern for the listener.
Presenting our ideas gently and thoughtfully, they are better received and more easily accepted. It is likely that you have experienced teachers, friends, and family members that know how to instruct and correct without being offensive.
On the other hand, most of us have encountered the opposite as well. When presented with cold, hard language, we tend to resist the message no matter what its value. As Solomon writes in Proverbs 15:1, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. WEB” The warmth and concern of the speaker makes a tremendous difference in whether or not the listener accepts or rejects the message.
By Your Words
Jesus was the greatest teacher, the most loving leader, and best friend the world has ever known. Greater than any man, wiser than Solomon, Christ says in Matthew 33:37, “For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned. WEB”
Jesus did not always use gentle words. Being divine himself, Christ knew when to rebuke and when to refrain. As his followers, we should be careful what we say. Commanded by Christ to love one another and win souls for the kingdom, we follow the example of the Lord in love and strive for discernment to know what words we should use and when to use them.
Seasoned With Salt
In addition to the commands and example of Christ, we have the sound advice of those Christians who came before us. Consider the words of Paul who says in Colossians 4:6, “Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. KJV”
We read in Proverbs 18:21, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue; those who love it will eat its fruit. WEB” The wise in heart are careful to speak kindly and to correct others with gentle words when possible. As Proverbs 16:21 says, “Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the wisdom in your holy word. Thank you for the truth of Jesus Christ. Increase my understanding. Help me to be wise in heart. Give me discernment to know what words to use as I serve your purpose. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s devotional: Rich in Mercy
