Proverbs 13:2-3 A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence. He that keeps his mouth keeps his life: but he that opens wide his lips shall have destruction.
‘A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressor shall eat violence.’ The mouth of a righteous man produces blessing and life, but the mouth of sinners produces cursing and destruction (13:2-3; 1Pet. 3:10-11; Jas. 3:1-18). The control of the tongue is commanded by God (Jas. 1:26; 3:1-18). We have two eyes and two ears, suggesting we should see and hear more than speak with the one tongue fenced with teeth.
Eighteen secrets of a long life: Freedom from fear (Ps. 34:4). Quickening from God (Ps. 34:5). Boldness – freedom from shame. Freedom from troubles (Ps. 34:6). Divine deliverance (Ps. 34:7). Partaking of God’s life (Ps. 34:8). Absolute trust in God. Fear of God (Ps. 34:7-9). Freedom from want (Ps. 34:9-10). Seeking God first (Ps. 34:10, 15; Matt. 6:33). Godly teaching (Ps. 34:11; 2Tim. 3:15). Control of the tongue (Ps. 34:12-13). Godliness – departing from evil (Ps. 34:14-16). Consecration to doing good (Ps. 34:14). Seeking and pursuing peace. Brokenness and humility (Ps. 34:18). Salvation of the soul (Ps. 34:22). Prosperity – freedom from worry.
Living the Word 