SCRIPTURE
"The words of a man's mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook." (Proverbs 18;4)
OBSERVATION
Are deep waters good or bad? Since the rest of the verse makes a contrast, we can assume they are not good. Why? Jesus said the mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart. It is in the deep recesses of a person where deceit and the choice morsels of gossip dwell. Evil thoughts, false testimony, slander...words that wound are found here. The heart is the source of these deep waters.
In contrast, wisdom bubbles. It is a fountain of life. From the heart that is pure, the fountain of wisdom refreshes others. Not in an overpowering, forceful gush, but in a refreshing bubbling brook. A bubbling brook is calm and peaceful. Not the torrent of a raging river.
APPLICATION
More often than I want, I can find myself in deep water. Speaking things that are not helpful to others (unfortunately it is my family who gets splashed with the worst of words). However, the words I speak are to be pure and right so they reflect what is truly in my heart. Instead of babbling I need to bubble. When I've attained wisdom (the practical knowledge of who God is and what he desires for my life) it is to naturally bubble to the surface, refreshing others. Words are powerful things. I don't want to wallow in the well but flow like a fountain.
PRAYER
Lord, may the words of my mouth reflect a heart that reflects you.
