Confessions of an ISTJ
Proverbs 12:13-28 Sharing
It’s been a while since I’ve written a post. Hope you’ve all been well. I’m currently in California as I type this and we’ve been having some nice sunny weather. For those that are done- congrats on finishing another semester! For those that still have finals- you’re almost there!
I enjoyed reading today’s DT on Proverbs 12:13-38 as the text highlights the importance of our words and actions. I know for myself this is something I constantly need to be reminded of as I’m a ISTJ (if you know, you know) and have seen the consequences of my words and actions with others. But really this should not be my excuse.
In particular, verse 13 says “An evil man is ensnared by the transgression of his lips,but the righteous escapes from trouble.” It warns us about the consequences of what we say. Our words can have an impact on not just ourselves, but others too. It reminds me of how the tongue is compared to a fire in James 3. Our words can quickly turn to something so dangerous. Verse 18 says “There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts” again emphasizing that our words can really hurt others. But it doesn’t end there as the second half says “but the tongue of the wise brings healing”.
Our tongue or words can have a positive impact. Think about the times in which we can have reconciliation with others by uttering something as simple as “I’m sorry” or “Can I talk to you about ____?” It’s sometimes easier to blame or complain. Or even saying the “right thing” but not doing it in a proper tone.
This chapter also touches upon deceit as verse 22 says “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.” It says that lying lips are an abomination to the Lord. This is something I had to think about for myself as growing up, I was guilty of lying a lot. It started off as small lies like saying I had no homework when I did and then evolving to saying I was doing well in my classes when I wasn’t. And then even after becoming Christian, it evolved to being deceptive before God and warning to keep certain aspects of my life hidden.
The way of the wicked leads them astray (verse 26). But in the path of the righteous is life (verse 28). These verses are a reminder to me that being honest and truthful before God and others is the true way to life. A life of deception and harsh words will lead me down a path of death.