Key Verse Spotlight
Proverbs 16:23 - Meaning and Application
Understand how this verse speaks to what you're facing and how to apply it today
Translation: World English Bible — Catholic Edition
" The heart of the wise instructs his mouth, and adds learning to his lips. "
Proverbs 16:23
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
21 The wise in heart shall be called prudent. Pleasantness of the lips promotes instruction.
22 Understanding is a fountain of life to one who has it, but the punishment of fools is their folly.
23 The heart of the wise instructs his mouth, and adds learning to his lips.
24 Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
25 There is a way which seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.
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Create Free AccountBible Guided Commentary
Solomon had spoken well of eloquence, or the sweetness of the lips (Pro 16:21), and he seemed to favor it more than wisdom. But here he corrects that impression. He shows that unless there is a good treasure within to support fine speech, it is worth very little. Wisdom in the heart is the main thing.
It is wisdom in the heart that directs our speaking. It teaches the mouth what to say, when to say it, and how to say it, so the words are fitting, relevant, and timely. Without that, even the most polished language would be better left unsaid.
Wisdom in the heart also gives weight to what we say. It adds learning to our words, along with strength of reason and force of argument. Without that, a statement may be carefully phrased, but when people think about it, they will dismiss it as empty.
Fine expressions may please the ear and catch the imagination, but learning on the lips is what convinces the mind and moves it. For that, wisdom in the heart is needed.
From This Chapter
Proverbs 16:1
"The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD."
Proverbs 16:2
"All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the motives."
Proverbs 16:3
"Commit your deeds to the LORD, and your plans shall succeed."
Proverbs 16:4
"The LORD has made everything for its own end— yes, even the wicked for the day of evil."
Proverbs 16:5
"Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD; they shall certainly not be unpunished."
Proverbs 16:6
"By mercy and truth iniquity is atoned for. By the fear of the LORD men depart from evil."
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