The subject of our speech is so prevalent in Proverbs and again in this chapter. We begin by seeing the different impact of gentle and harsh words (v1). A gentle tongue is spoken of again but this time it is contrasted with a perverse tongue (v4).

The wise person’s speech reveals their knowledge whereas a fool just blurts out their foolishness (v2). The wise person spreads knowledge that helps but a fool’s speech does not benefit people (v7).

As we think therefore of the impact of the tongue it is not surprising that we’re encouraged not to pour out our thoughts but to take time to ponder what we say (v28).

Another thing that’s important is to understand that acts of worship only please the Lord if we’re right with the Lord (v8-9). We can’t live as we please and then expect God to accept our worship or our praying (v29).

In our worship, our praying and our living we need a fear of God and great humility before Him (v33).