Proverbs 12:20“Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy.”

In light of today’s verse, how do we interpret this scripture? It’s safe to say that those who lie and practice deception will reap what they sow: discord and turmoil. If you’ve ever spent time around people who struggle to tell the truth, you know drama follows them. Problems seem to follow them wherever they go.

On the other hand, those who promote peace will find the blessing of joy. In Hebrew, the word shalom (or peace) doesn’t just mean the absence of conflict. It also implies completeness, soundness, welfare, contentment, friendship, and much more. Given its rich interpretation, it is clear why Jesus declared in Matthew 5:9 (NIV), “Blessed are the peacemakers.” They will be called children of God.

It can be difficult and painful to tell the truth sometimes. Yet, living with a clear conscience and being at peace with yourself and others is more rewarding. These rewards outweigh the temporary benefits of deceit.

Do you see how important it is to be wise in our speaking?

So much of the book of Proverbs focuses on our words. This part of Proverbs 12 is no exception. Here Solomon gives us some clues about reigning in life. He mentions this in our speech: “When someone insults you, don’t respond in kind. Keep quiet and shrug it off. The fool has a short fuse, but the wise person uses words with discretion when put under pressure.”

The wise person chooses to tell the truth rather than to stretch or embellish it. Those who embrace heaven’s wisdom are truth-tellers. They avoid telling lies.

Those who reign in life use words carefully and kindly. While fools use words recklessly and hurtfully, the wise use words that comfort and heal. The wise person doesn’t use words to impress other people with their knowledge. This is what fools do. Wise people are not addicted to the need for approval. Wise people are skillful at bringing a life-giving word of encouragement to people who are struggling. Their words can do wonders to restore joy to a wounded heart.

Wise people are skilled at offering life-giving words of encouragement to people who are struggling. Their words can do wonders to restore joy to a wounded heart.

Finally, wise people live in a constant flow of kingdom revelation. They know God’s strategies for reigning in life, so they always give good advice to others. Our Father teaches us to speak. How wonderful that He is the One whose words are established forever!