A Path To Wisdom: Proverbs 15:1-5

Proverbs 15:1 states, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

This verse emphasizes the power of gentle speech to defuse anger and conflict, while harsh words can escalate tension. The important Hebrew word here is “מַעֲנֶה” (ma’aneh), meaning “answer” or “response.”

One notable example that illustrates the principle of Proverbs 15:1 is the story of Abigail and David in 1 Samuel 25:23-35. David was on his way to attack Nabal and his household in anger because Nabal had insulted him and refused to provide assistance.

Abigail, Nabal’s wife, intervened by approaching David with humility and calm words, bringing gifts and speaking wisely. She acknowledged David’s anger and persuaded him to relent, preventing bloodshed. Her gentle and respectful response turned away David’s wrath and led to a peaceful resolution, embodying the essence of a soft answer defusing anger.

Another example is found in Judges 8:1-3, where Gideon faced the anger of the Ephraimites, who were upset because he did not call them to join the initial battle. Instead of responding with harsh words, Gideon answered softly, praising their contributions and downplaying his own role in the victory. His gentle words pacified their anger, preventing further conflict and demonstrating how a soft answer can turn away wrath.

In our modern context, responding to criticism or anger with calmness and kindness can prevent arguments and maintain peace in relationships, whether at work, home, or online. It may be our tendency to think that yelling will overpower the person and diffuse the situation, but quite the opposite happens, like pouring gasoline on a fire. Instead of getting angry, it’s more productive to calmly respond.

If the other individual isn’t receptive either way, it’s better to walk away briefly from the conversation until both parties have calmed down. This is wisdom that God has given when we face difficult situations, and it is evident from Scripture the power of a soft answer. What ways do you handle conflict? Are you relying upon the wisdom found in Scripture?

Proverbs 15:2, “The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of fools pour out folly.”

This verse contrasts the speech of the wise, which is informed and constructive, with that of fools, which is reckless and harmful. The Hebrew word “יִיטִיב” (yitiv), meaning “commends” or “enhances,” indicates that wise speech adds value and knowledge.

This verse illustrates the story of Daniel and King Belshazzar in Daniel 5. During a great feast, Belshazzar used the sacred vessels from the Jerusalem temple to drink wine and praise false gods. Suddenly, a hand appeared and wrote mysterious words on the wall. None of Belshazzar’s wise men could interpret the writing, revealing their folly.

However, Daniel was called to interpret the message. With wisdom and insight, Daniel explained the writing as a divine judgment against Belshazzar’s arrogance and blasphemy. Daniel’s wise words commended knowledge and delivered a critical message that the king’s actions would lead to his downfall. This story contrasts the folly of Belshazzar’s advisors with Daniel’s wisdom, highlighting the profound impact of knowledgeable and wise speech.

The tongue is a small body part, but it has the power to steer the entire person. We must be careful to tame the tongue, as James warns us. In James 3:2, the apostle highlights the universal challenge of controlling one’s speech, stating, “We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.”

This verse underscores the profound difficulty in managing our words, suggesting that mastery over our speech is a hallmark of spiritual maturity and self-discipline. It implies that if a person can control their tongue, they likely have the ability to control other aspects of their behavior as well.

Today, this teaches us the importance of thoughtful and informed communication, highlighting how wise words can contribute positively to discussions and decisions. The way for us to tame the tongue is through relying upon the Spirit of God. I have found that when I am tempted to be upset in a situation, it’s best to take a deep breath, envision God’s unconditional love, and your attitude will immediately change for the better.

The Bible tells us that our hearts are desperately wicked. Apart from the Holy Spirit, it’s impossible to tame the tongue. One of the signs of the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23) is self-control. Therefore, when we rely upon God’s power, our ability to speak truth instead of folly will come to fruition.

Proverbs 15:3 says, “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.”

This verse reminds us of God’s omnipresence and His awareness of all our actions. The Hebrew word “עֵינֵי” (einei), meaning “eyes,” signifies God’s vigilant observation. In a modern setting, this can be a call to integrity, encouraging us to act righteously and ethically, knowing that our actions are seen and judged by the all-knowing King of the Universe.

In Psalm 33:13-15, it affirms that God looks down from heaven and observes all humanity, understanding the hearts of individuals and evaluating their actions. Similarly, Hebrews 4:13 reinforces this concept by stating that nothing is hidden from God’s sight; everything is laid bare before Him. These verses collectively emphasize that God not only sees but actively watches over both the righteous and the wicked, holding everyone accountable for their deeds.

Examples from Scripture further illustrate this truth. In Genesis 16:13, Hagar, feeling abandoned and distressed, encounters God who sees her situation and provides comfort and guidance. This encounter reveals God’s personal concern and awareness of individual circumstances.

Moreover, 2 Chronicles 16:9 highlights God’s attentive gaze on those who are faithful and fully committed to Him, seeking to strengthen and support them. Conversely, Acts 5:1-11 narrates the swift judgment upon Ananias and Sapphira for their deceitful actions, demonstrating God’s immediate response to sin and His unwavering knowledge of human motives.

The Bible clearly warns us that whatever is done in darkness will be exposed to the light. Our hidden sins are not really hidden; they will be exposed on the day of judgment. Therefore, it’s imperative that we repent of our sins and trust in Jesus. For the Lord is our righteousness. He took all the sin upon himself so that we would receive His righteousness.

Have you trusted in Him today? You can call upon the name of the Lord anytime. The Bible says: “Call upon the name of the Lord and you will be saved, you and your household (Acts 2:21).