Introduction
Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 15:2, here’s different Bible translations:
King James Version
The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.
American Standard Version
The tongue of the wise uttereth knowledge aright; But the mouth of fools poureth out folly.
World English Bible version
The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of fools gush out folly.
Proverbs 15:2 Meaning & Commentary
The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, But the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness. – Proverbs 15:2 (NKJV)
Knowledge, wisdom, and understanding work together in unison. When a wise person acquires more and more knowledge, they can utilize that knowledge and apply it skilfully in their lives – even to the benefit of others. The lips of wise people can ‘spread knowledge’: Proverbs 15:2 -The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of fools. Not only can a wise person ‘use’ or spread their knowledge with others – such as the knowledge of God or His Ways.
However, a wise person also knows how to use knowledge ‘rightly’; this means that someone can have all kind of ‘knowledge’ in their hearts but not use it effectively or not know when to speak out, what to say, or even when to keep quiet. Jesus taught an important principle that “precious things” are reserved for those who can receive them: Matthew 7:6 – Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you. So, correctly using knowledge is sometimes knowing when to keep quiet and keep “what you know” to yourself!
The second part of Proverbs 15:2 says that “the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.” This could imply saying foolish things, speaking carelessly, or not knowing when to say nothing. If we are unsure of what to do, say, or how to act – the best course of action is usually to keep quiet: Proverbs 10:19 – When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.
Furthermore, The Word of God is filled with knowledge, and when we read it, we are empowered with knowledge; however, that alone is insufficient. We need to apply that knowledge to our lives, which takes wisdom. Even when we are speaking to other people and offering them “counsel,” it is wisdom that allows us to offer “solutions” to others from God’s Word.
Application
How can we apply Proverbs 15:2 to our lives?
As we equip ourselves with knowledge from God’s Word and other sources, we need to be able to effectively “use” and apply that knowledge to our lives and the lives of others. This is why The Bible invites us to pray for wisdom all the time: James 1:5 – If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
When Paul wrote the letter to the church at Ephesus, he said that he was praying that God would grant them “the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation” – in the knowledge of God. Ephesians 1:15-18 – For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened…
So, we see in this scripture that knowledge is the “bedrock” of wisdom and revelation. Wisdom comes from God; however, we can also grow in wisdom by spending time with others who are already wise: Proverbs 13:20 – Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. We should not neglect the role that mentors play in our lives. We can ‘fast-track’ our road to success and wisdom by surrounding ourselves with the right mentors and counselors.
Wisdom impacts every area of our lives, including what we say or don’t and when / how we say it! Proverbs 4:5-6 – Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth. Do not forsake her, and she will keep you; love her, and she will guard you. With God’s wisdom, we can use our words effectively and even impart wisdom to those around us who desperately need it!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your word, which is a treasure chest of knowledge. I ask today that you would give me wisdom and insight. Let Your kingdom come, and Your will be done in my life.
I ask now for wisdom according to the book of James. Help me to be able to use the wisdom effectively in my life and be able to impart wisdom, knowledge, and understanding to those around me who are hungry to receive it. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen!
