Introduction
Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 15:4, here’s different Bible translations:
King James Version
A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.
American Standard Version
A gentle tongue is a tree of life; But perverseness therein is a breaking of the spirit.
World English Bible version
A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but deceit in it crushes the spirit.
Proverbs 15:4 Meaning & Commentary
A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit. – Proverbs 15:4 (ESV)
Whenever The Bible talks about a “tongue,” it refers to the words that someone speaks or allows out of the mouth. This verse in Proverbs 15:4 says that a “gentle tongue is a tree of life.” The word “gentle” is the Hebrew word “Marpe,” which can be translated as healing or wholesome. Therefore, the first part of this verse is saying that gentle, kind, healing, and wholesome words are a tree of life. However, the second part of the verse says that “perverseness in it (the tongue) breaks the spirit.” The word “perverseness” is the Hebrew word “seleph,” which means crookedness, perversion, or crooked dealing.
This verse tells us that these kinds of words can “break the spirit.” It is a fact that some people have been on the receiving end of harsh and hurtful words and never recovered. This may sound overly dramatic; however, it is the truth. Words can be especially hurtful when they come from people that we look up to.
For example, a parent may speak mean and hurtful words over their children, such as calling them “stupid” or questioning why they never “do anything right.” Words like this will stay will those kids even until their adult years. Their spirit was “broken” when these hurtful words were released over their lives. Conversely, gentle, wholesome, and healing words are a “tree of life.” This symbolizes that these words can be remembered, and people can draw strength from them.
For example, a Mom and Dad could constantly tell their children that they can do anything they set their mind to or that they are more than overcomers in Christ. At the time, the words may not mean a lot. However, that person could face a challenging situation in the future, and their parents’ words can come back to their minds and offer them strength, hope, and encouragement through their challenges. The words become a “tree of life” that the person can “eat” from down the line.
Application
How can we apply Proverbs 15:4 to our lives?
The power of the tongue is a theme repeated often in The Bible – especially in the book of Proverbs. I believe the reason is that we need a constant reminder of how powerful it is, and we are often tempted to use our tongue for destruction and not for good. The tongue is incredible because it can be used either for good or evil. The book of James teaches us that the tongue can be used as either an instrument of blessing or of cursing:
James 3:7-9 – For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God.
We need to resolve, therefore, to use our tongues for the glory of God. This means that we need to release words of life over ourselves and others whenever we speak. The gentle, kind, and encouraging words may be just what someone needs and serve as a “tree of life” in somebody’s life. Furthermore, we must remind ourselves how damaging destructive words can be – they can literally break someone else’s spirit. Not only that, but they can also release words of death over our lives: Proverbs 18:21 – Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.
We all get angry occasionally, and in moments of anger and other strong emotions, such as frustration, we can be tempted to speak harmful and damaging words. Therefore, if we feel this temptation, we should remove ourselves from the situation or rather say nothing at all. If we do, we can cause severe damage that can affect people for years!
Prayer
Mighty God, I thank You for reminding me through Your word how powerful my tongue is. Firstly, I ask that You forgive me for speaking words of death and destruction where I may have done so.
I pray that you help me to control my tongue and only speak words of life that will bring healing to other people. I pray and ask this all in Jesus’ name. Amen!
