A. Godly speech is truthful.
Lies display a self-centred hatred of others (26:28). Conversely, truthfulness is rooted in love for God and others (Eph 4:15).
B. Godly speech is edifying
- It is solution-oriented, therefore it does not delight in gossip (Proverbs 11:13, 26:22)
- It restrains itself to deal with problems, it does not react to break down people (Proverbs 10:12, 15:1)
- It is measured, so as to always build (Proverbs 12:18)
C. Godly speech is clear. Clarity is efficiency in conveying intended meaning.
- Think before you speak (Proverbs 15:28)
- Put a premium on your words – less is better (Proverbs 10:19)
- Silence is preferable over poor speech (Proverbs 17:27-28)
- Choose the best, most edifying words (Proverbs 15:23)
- Be concise and avoid exaggerations (Matthew 5:37)
Examples of things that ruin clarity: rambling, hinting, loaded statements, manipulative statements, silent treatment, diverting, blaming, crocodile tears, irrelevancies, avoiding necessary communication.
D. Godly speech is well-timed (Proverbs 15:23, 25:11-12)
Something well-said at the wrong time is as bad as something poorly said.
Beware of seeking effective or intense communication when one is fatigued, hungry, extremely angry (Proverbs 17:14).
On the other hand, do not avoid necessary communication (Proverbs 27:5-6).
E. Godly speech is also purifying (Ephesians 4:29). Our speech is to draw others toward Christ, not away from Him.
- Applies correction (Proverbs 27:5-6, 12:1, 28:23)
Defiling or polluting forms of speech are:
- Destructive criticism (12:18)
- Argumentative (15:1, 17:14)
- Gossip (Proverbs 11:13)
- Murmuring (17:22, 15:15)
- Inappropriate humour (Proverbs 26:18-19)
- Insults (Proverbs 3:34)
- Flattery (Proverbs 28:23)
- Boasting (Proverbs 27:12)
- Nagging (Proverbs 27:15)
- Revengeful, malicious, wrathful (10:12)