Proverbs 18:3-5 (ESV)
3 When wickedness comes, contempt comes also,
and with dishonor comes disgrace.
4 The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters;
the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.
5 It is not good to be partial to the wicked
or to deprive the righteous of justice.
When wickedness enters a person’s life, contempt and disgrace soon follow. The fool may reject wisdom and pursue her own desires for a season, but eventually her choices bring consequences. Sin damages relationships, destroys trust, and brings dishonor upon the person who refuses to walk in God’s ways. What begins as a rejection of wisdom eventually leads to disgrace before others and, more importantly, the righteous judgment of God.
Solomon then turns our attention to the power of words. The words of a person’s mouth can be like deep waters, revealing that there is far more beneath the surface. This image suggests something substantial, not shallow or quickly exhausted. A wise person does not speak empty words but offers thoughts filled with truth and understanding. Her words have depth because she has learned to treasure and live according to God’s wisdom.
Solomon also describes wisdom as a bubbling brook. Unlike a stagnant pool, a flowing stream continually refreshes those who come to it. The words of the wise bring life to others because they offer truth and guidance when it is needed. A wise woman does not speak merely to be heard; she speaks words that refresh and strengthen those around her.
The proverb then turns to the importance of justice. It is wrong to favor the wicked or to deprive the righteous of what is rightfully theirs. God commanded his people, “You shall do no injustice in court. You shall not be partial to the poor or defer to the great, but in righteousness shall you judge your neighbor” (Leviticus 19:15). Whether through corruption or a desire to protect our own interests, God condemns any action that twists justice.
Consider where you are tempted to compromise what is right. We may not accept a bribe or openly defend wickedness, but we can quietly overlook sin when we want the approval of others. Ask the Lord to give you the courage to stand for truth even when it costs you. The approval of people fades quickly, but God’s justice will stand forever.