Understanding Proverbs 10:11 (The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life)

 

"The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence." (Proverbs 10:11 NIV)

 

To fully understand the importance of this proverb and apply it to our daily lives, it's vital we examine its context within the broader text in Chapter 10.

Context of Proverbs 10:11

Proverbs is a book in the Old Testament chiefly attributed to King Solomon. The book is a collection of wisdom and teachings that offer useful advice on living wisely, righteously, and according to God's will. Proverbs 10, from verse one to the last, consists of a series of unique sayings that distinguish the lives of the righteous and the wicked. It speaks of their behavior, character traits, and outcomes. The theme of the Chapter is that righteousness leads to life and blessing, while wickedness leads to destruction and sorrow.

Understanding Proverbs 10:11 

"The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life,..." 

This part of the verse emphasizes how powerful words are, especially when they come from the mouth of a righteous person, thus, someone who lives by the laws and principles of God. The phrase "fountain of life" implies that the words of the righteous are life-giving. Just as a fountain provides refreshing water and can sustain and nourish those who drink from it, so the words of the righteous have the power to uplift, encourage, guide, restore, and build others. The speech of the upright contains truth, wisdom, and love, which can positively impact those around them.

"but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence."

The second part of the verse, in contrast, talks about the words of the wicked. Thus, someone who does not live by the laws and principles of God. The word "conceals" implies that their words may appear harmless on the surface but, underneath, hide destructive intentions. They cover their mouth with wickedness yet mask it to make it seem harmless. The wicked may use deceit, manipulation, or harsh words that ultimately lead to harm and destruction. Their speech is the opposite of life-giving; it is life-draining, causing damage to relationships, communities, and even themselves.

Words are Powerful

Words are extremely powerful. The Bible continually speaks about the impact of our speech or words, whether for good or bad. James chapter 3, verses 5 to 6, made mention of the tongue as a small part of the whole human body but can spark an entire forest ablaze. Thus, it can destroy a family, community, relationships, and an entire nation. This clearly shows how even small words can have significant consequences. Also, Proverbs 18:21 (NIV) states, "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit."
The power that even smaller words hold is the reason we are urged to utter positive and life-giving words so that they may have positive impacts on our hearers. We reflect the character of God, who spoke the world into existence and whose words bring life and restoration when we utter positive words or speeches. Contrariwise, whoever speaks deceitfully or harshly reflects a spirit of destruction and separation from God.

How can we apply Proverbs 10:11 to our lives? 

1. Teaches us to Guard our speech

One of the most direct applications of Proverbs 10:11 is to be mindful of our speech or how we use our words. Colossians 4:6 states "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt..."
As Christians, we should strive to ensure that their speech is always productive, uplifting, and life-giving. We must speak the truth in love, offer encouragement, and use words to build others up rather than tear them down.

2. Teaches us to learn active listening before speaking

"My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak..." (James 1:19)
For us to speak words that are truly uplifting and productive, it's important to listen more carefully to others. Active listening involves paying full attention to the speaker, understanding their perspective, and responding thoughtfully. This attitude not only helps us to avoid misunderstandings but also ensures that our words are appropriate and beneficial to those we are engaging with.

3. Avoidance of Gossip and Slander

Gossip is the act of discussing or disseminating information about someone, typically when they are not around and often without their permission. Gossip, slander, and other forms of harmful speech or words are warned against in the Bible. These kinds of speech are destructive and can cause serious damage to individuals and communities. "A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much." Proverbs 20:19 (NIV)
As followers of Christ, we should avoid engaging in or spreading such speech and instead focus on promoting peace and understanding among ourselves.

4. Teaches us to be righteous

When we live by the laws and principles of God and learn of Him, we will not find it hard saying words that give life to the hearers. Our mouth will become a fountain of life. We will consistently speak life-giving words because we have first cultivated righteousness in our hearts. Jesus said, "For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Matthew 12:34b NKJV). Therefore, if we want our words to be a fountain of life, we must fill our hearts with God's Word, seek His wisdom, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide us.

5. To encourage and edify our hearers

Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. (Ephesians 4:29). One of the most powerful ways to speak life is by speaking words that are able to offer encouragement and edification to others. Whether it's through a kind word, a compliment, or providing support during difficult times. These actions reflect the love of Christ and can have a profound impact on the lives of others.

Proverbs 10:11 serves as a powerful reminder of the value of our words and the obligation we have as believers to use our speech in ways that honor God and benefit others. By walking and observing the Laws and statutes of God, we receive His righteousness in our hearts, and by that, we become intentional about the words we speak. Our mouths now become fountains of life, reflecting the love and wisdom of God in a world that desperately needs it.