Proverbs 10:20 Commentary and Bible Study

The righteous are known by their consistency throughout. Not only are their hearts renewed but their mouths are brought in harmony with these inner changes worked in them by God. Their mouths are not left to operate as free agents but are brought under control so that their words become something of great value to all around them. They give to others what is worth more than silver or gold, and they can make real difference to the eternal good of others. Do we realise that words are worth so much? A man may clear out his house and get rid of much accumulated stuff, but he keeps the choice silver in a special place. Wisdom must come from the heart, for only to the extent that it is understood and appreciated can it be passed on to others. The wise man must not be silent, but must share what God has shown him. But by comparison, the wicked are very different. The mouth is only the overflow of the heart and the real source is the heart, but the tongue of the wicked is not worth considering and is therefore not mentioned, for no change has taken place in the heart that lies behind it, and without this it is quite impossible that the mouth should speak words of any value – a corrupt tree cannot bear good fruit.