What does Proverbs 18:21 mean?

Proverbs 18:21 states, "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." This profound verse from the book of Proverbs encapsulates a significant truth about the power of our words. As a non-denominational Christian pastor, I would like to delve into the meaning of this verse, exploring its implications for our daily lives and spiritual journey.

The book of Proverbs is a treasure trove of wisdom, attributed primarily to King Solomon, who is renowned for his God-given wisdom. Proverbs 18:21 is a part of this collection, offering insight into the profound impact our speech can have. To understand this verse fully, we must consider both the immediate context within Proverbs and the broader biblical context.

The Power of the Tongue

The phrase "The tongue has the power of life and death" highlights the immense influence our words can wield. This is not merely a poetic exaggeration but a truth that is echoed throughout Scripture. The tongue, though a small part of the body, can cause great harm or bring about tremendous good. James 3:5-6 illustrates this vividly: "Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body."

Words can be life-giving. They have the power to encourage, uplift, and inspire. Proverbs 12:18 says, "The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Words of kindness, wisdom, and love can heal wounds, build relationships, and foster a sense of community and belonging. Jesus himself demonstrated the power of life-giving words in his ministry. His teachings, parables, and interactions with people were often marked by words that brought hope, healing, and transformation.

Conversely, words can also be destructive. They can wound, discourage, and even lead to the metaphorical or literal death of relationships, reputations, and spirits. Gossip, slander, lies, and harsh criticisms can have devastating effects. Proverbs 15:4 states, "The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit." The destructive power of words can be seen in the way they can incite violence, spread falsehoods, and create divisions.

The Fruit of Our Words

The second part of Proverbs 18:21, "and those who love it will eat its fruit," suggests that there are consequences to the way we use our words. The "fruit" here symbolizes the outcomes or results of our speech. If we use our words wisely and lovingly, we will reap positive outcomes. If we use them recklessly or maliciously, we will face negative consequences.

This principle of sowing and reaping is a recurring theme in the Bible. Galatians 6:7-8 reminds us, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life." Our words are seeds that we plant in the lives of others and in our own lives. The fruit they bear will depend on the nature of the seeds we sow.

Practical Applications

Understanding the power of the tongue and the consequences of our words should lead us to a place of greater mindfulness and intentionality in our speech. Here are a few practical applications drawn from this wisdom:

1. Speak with Love and Kindness: Ephesians 4:29 instructs us, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Our words should be marked by love, kindness, and a desire to edify others.

2. Practice Restraint: Proverbs 10:19 warns, "Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues." Sometimes, the wisest course of action is to remain silent rather than speak hastily or out of anger. James 1:19 advises, "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."

3. Seek Wisdom: Proverbs 15:28 states, "The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil." Before speaking, we should seek wisdom and consider the potential impact of our words. This involves prayer, reflection, and a heart aligned with God's will.

4. Encourage and Build Up: Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Our words should be a source of encouragement and motivation for others, helping them grow in their faith and good works.

5. Repent and Reconcile: When we fail in our speech, it is important to seek forgiveness and make amends. Matthew 5:23-24 teaches, "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift." Repentance and reconciliation are crucial steps in healing the wounds caused by our words.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

As believers, we are not left to our own devices in managing the power of our tongues. The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in guiding and transforming our speech. Galatians 5:22-23 describes the fruit of the Spirit, which includes qualities such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. When we walk in the Spirit, our words are more likely to reflect these qualities.

Prayer is an essential practice in seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance. Psalm 19:14 is a beautiful prayer that we can adopt: "May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer." By inviting the Holy Spirit to govern our speech, we align ourselves with God's will and purpose.

The Example of Jesus

Jesus Christ is our ultimate example of how to use words wisely and lovingly. Throughout the Gospels, we see Jesus using his words to teach, heal, rebuke, and encourage. His words were always purposeful, reflecting his deep love for humanity and his commitment to the truth.

In John 6:63, Jesus says, "The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life." Jesus' words were life-giving because they were rooted in the Spirit and aligned with God's will. As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate his example, using our words to bring life and reflect the love of God.

Conclusion

Proverbs 18:21 is a powerful reminder of the significant impact our words can have. The tongue indeed holds the power of life and death, and we will experience the consequences of how we use this power. As we navigate our daily lives, let us strive to speak with love, kindness, and wisdom, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit and following the example of Jesus Christ. By doing so, we can use our words to build up, encourage, and bring life to those around us, fulfilling our calling as ambassadors of God's love and truth.