Words

(Prov. 15:1-4, 7-8; 17:4-10)

The words we use can have serious consequences, both for good or evil (Prov. 18:21, James 3:4-8)

Prov. 15:1 (See also Prov. 12:18)

Tender Words - Calm (e.g. Judges 8:1-3, 1 Sam 25:1-33)
Hurtful Words - Stir up anger and resentment

Prov. 15:2 (see also Ecc. 10:12)

Knowledgeable Words - Demonstrate Intelligence (see also Prov. 16:23)
Foolish Words - Demonstrate Ignorance

Prov. 15:4 (see also Prov. 12:19)

Peaceful &True Words - Preserve Life
False Words - Demonstrate Spiritual Failing (see also Ps. 52:2-5; Prov. 18:7)

Prov. 15:7
Wise lips share godly knowledge (i.e. Teach others) (see also Prov. 10:21; 1 Tim. 4:6-8; 2 Tim. 2:2)
Foolish hearts are incapable of doing this (see also Matt. 12:34)

Prov. 15:8 (see also Isa. 1:11-20; 66:3-4; Matt. 23:23; 1 Pe. 3:12, 1 John 3:21-22)
God’s reaction to our sacrifices or prayers depends upon the condition of our hearts
God knows the condition of our hearts! (Prov. 5:21, Luke 16:15, Acts 1:24; 15:8, Rom. 8:27)

Prov. 17:4 (see also 2 Tim. 4:3-4)

The ears of evil hearted people hear what they want and believe what is convenient for them

Prov. 17:5 (see also Prov. 24:17-18; Obad. 12-15)

Having contempt for the poor and for those suffering adversity angers God
Have you ever done this? Do you still?

Prov. 17:7 (see also Prov. 16:10, James 3:1)

Leaders are especially accountable for their honesty
Why?
Consider Enron, etc.

Prov.17:8 (see also Luke 6:38; 2 Cor. 9:7)

God favors the generous

Prov. 17:9
Love covers a multitude of sins (see also Prov. 10:12, 1 Pe. 4:8)
Is it easier to do this for some people and harder for others? If so, why?
Continuing to discuss a failing causes resentment and division

Prov. 17:10
The nature and extent of discipline needed to correct depends upon the wisdom of the one disciplined