Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.
Language is a powerful thing. If there’s a theme to chapter 18, that might be it. Notice all the words and images associated with language: expressing opinion, words, mouth, lips, whisperer, quarreling.
All the stuff of words.
Here is a book about wisdom, about living the good life, the use and abuse of words is a hot topic. With words we express gratitude, encouragement, and love. With words we express contempt, complaint, and conflict.
And if chapter 18 is true, words are a matter of life and death.
Is there a time that the words you spoke made a difference in your day?
Fiftyeight 