The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.
The wise heart instructs the mouth, directing speech and adding learning and understanding to what is spoken on the lips. Wisdom lodged within governs outward words, so that utterance is guided from inside and grows in understanding. In contrast to pride and self-exaltation, such wisdom belongs to God and not to self. Wise speech of this kind is joined with pleasant words that bring sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.
Knowledge of God's will is therefore necessary, because sincerity alone does not ensure choosing the right course. Inner wisdom gives independence, so that affection for others does not control the conscience. That same inward guidance keeps personal attachment from holding a person back from obeying conviction.
The wise heart instructs the mouth, directing speech and adding learning and understanding to what is spoken on the lips. Wisdom lodged within governs outward words, so that utterance is guided from inside and grows in understanding. In contrast to pride and self-exaltation, such wisdom belongs to God and not to self. Wise speech of this kind is joined with pleasant words that bring sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.
Knowledge of God's will is therefore necessary, because sincerity alone does not ensure choosing the right course. Inner wisdom gives independence, so that affection for others does not control the conscience. That same inward guidance keeps personal attachment from holding a person back from obeying conviction.