Proverbs 12:22-23 (ESV)
22 Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD,
but those who act faithfully are his delight.
23 A prudent man conceals knowledge,
but the heart of fools proclaims folly.
Solomon begins with a sobering reminder that Yahweh abhors lying. Scripture repeatedly teaches that falsehood stands completely opposed to his character. Titus 1:2 reminds us that God “never lies.” Because he is perfectly holy, deception is foreign to his nature. He does not merely choose not to lie. Lying is impossible for him because he is truth. This is why lying lips are so offensive in his sight. Revelation 21:8, 21:27, and 22:15 warn that those who love and practice falsehood will be excluded from the New Jerusalem.
In contrast, “those who act faithfully are his delight.” The trustworthy please the Lord. They do not manipulate, exaggerate, flatter, or deceive in order to gain advantage for themselves. Instead, they walk in integrity before God and others. Faithful people bring stability into relationships because others know they can be counted on to speak honestly and act rightly. Though imperfect, they desire to reflect the character of the God they serve. Such people enjoy fellowship with the Lord both now and forever.
Solomon then contrasts the prudent with the fool. “A prudent man conceals knowledge, but the heart of fools proclaims folly.” The fool lacks self control. She feels compelled to speak constantly, draw attention to herself, boast in what she knows, and loudly express opinions. She cannot govern her tongue. The wise woman, however, understands that there is “a time to keep silence, and a time to speak” (Ecclesiastes 3:7). Because she is concerned with the glory of God and the good of others rather than promoting herself, she exercises restraint. Even when she knows something, she does not always feel the need to prove that she knows it.
Wisdom requires discretion. There are times when withholding information is wise and even necessary. Not every fact must be shared, especially when unnecessary disclosure would harm others or stir up division. The fool, however, delights in broadcasting offenses, exposing conflicts, and drawing attention to perceived wrongs. She moves quickly from person to person, spreading information like a fire raging through a forest. Once the damage is done, it cannot easily be undone. Reputations are tarnished. Relationships are destroyed. And the tongue of the fool is often the very spark that set the fire ablaze.
The Lord sees all of it. He watches the conversations of his people. He knows when words are used to protect, encourage, and preserve peace, and he knows when they are used to wound, divide, and tear others down. Just as a loving parent disciplines disobedient children, God disciplines those who misuse their words to harm others. Every conversation leaves an aroma behind. Do your words leave behind the sweet fragrance of wisdom or the lingering stench of folly?