Evil hearts feed on evil words, and the path to godly living is to reject destructive speech and embrace truth.
When describing the harm caused by ungodly speech, Solomon declares that “An evildoer listens to wicked lips; A liar pays attention to a destructive tongue” (Proverbs 17:4). Essentially, those who are inclined toward wrongdoing are drawn to vicious or dishonest words. Since humans were created with the capacity to speak and hear, our words can bring healing when used righteously, or inflict great harm when twisted toward wickedness. The phrase “wicked lips” underscores words that seek to harm or manipulate, and “a destructive tongue” implies deadly effects that spring out of lies or harmful speech, eroding trust and sowing chaos. Such speech arises from the heart’s sinful tendencies, reinforcing what Jesus taught: “the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart” (Matthew 12:34).
This proverb highlights a fundamental spiritual insight that destructive words find their home among those already disposed to evil. Someone who “listens to wicked lips” has set their heart to be receptive to slander, gossip, or deceit, allowing that poison to shape their attitudes and actions. Instead of turning a deaf ear, they drink in destructive language as though it were useful or entertaining. By contrast, Scripture encourages God’s people to guard their hearts diligently (Proverbs 4:23) and measure their words in ways that speak life and blessing.
Moreover, Proverbs 17:4 stands as a reminder that our alliances and the counsel we heed can shape our character. If we surround ourselves with words of hatred or trickery, we risk drifting further from wisdom and truth. The Bible consistently warns that listening to harmful speech leads to confusion, anger, and broken relationships. By choosing language that upholds truth, love, and genuine admonition, believers mirror God’s righteous standard, rejecting any inclination to follow “a destructive tongue” and embracing wholesome conversation that edifies others.
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Proverbs 17:4 meaning
When describing the harm caused by ungodly speech, Solomon declares that “An evildoer listens to wicked lips; A liar pays attention to a destructive tongue” (Proverbs 17:4). Essentially, those who are inclined toward wrongdoing are drawn to vicious or dishonest words. Since humans were created with the capacity to speak and hear, our words can bring healing when used righteously, or inflict great harm when twisted toward wickedness. The phrase “wicked lips” underscores words that seek to harm or manipulate, and “a destructive tongue” implies deadly effects that spring out of lies or harmful speech, eroding trust and sowing chaos. Such speech arises from the heart’s sinful tendencies, reinforcing what Jesus taught: “the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart” (Matthew 12:34).
This proverb highlights a fundamental spiritual insight that destructive words find their home among those already disposed to evil. Someone who “listens to wicked lips” has set their heart to be receptive to slander, gossip, or deceit, allowing that poison to shape their attitudes and actions. Instead of turning a deaf ear, they drink in destructive language as though it were useful or entertaining. By contrast, Scripture encourages God’s people to guard their hearts diligently (Proverbs 4:23) and measure their words in ways that speak life and blessing.
Moreover, Proverbs 17:4 stands as a reminder that our alliances and the counsel we heed can shape our character. If we surround ourselves with words of hatred or trickery, we risk drifting further from wisdom and truth. The Bible consistently warns that listening to harmful speech leads to confusion, anger, and broken relationships. By choosing language that upholds truth, love, and genuine admonition, believers mirror God’s righteous standard, rejecting any inclination to follow “a destructive tongue” and embracing wholesome conversation that edifies others.