Ecclesiastes 10:12 The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious; but the lips of a fool will swallow up himself.

Jesus spoke graciously: Luke 4:22 And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth…

What kind of words did Jesus speak? What are gracious words? What does gracious mean? How would you evaluate the words you speak to others: family, friends, fellow employees, etc. Are gracious words spoken in the lunchroom at work? 

Gracious words are kind, thoughtful, and bring benefit to those who hear them. Wise people use their words to uplift, encourage, and build positive relationships.

Why are our words sometimes like the fool? What does ‘swallow up himself’ mean? Foolish people often speak carelessly, arrogantly, or in ways that ultimately bring harm to themselves. Their words may cause trouble, create conflict, or reveal their own lack of understanding. Instead of helping others, their speech leads to their own downfall.

When we are angry do we speak gracious words or foolish words? What is one of the biggest reasons we get angry? Expectations. We expect others to do and behave according to our expectations. We have an excuse for ourselves if we don’t meet others’ expectations, but we don’t often show grace to those who let us down. We must realize that everyone is a fallen sinner. No one is perfect. We can count on two things: We will let others down, and they will let us down. Foolish words will destroy you and me. If we dwell on the faults of others, then the wrong words will come out of our mouths. We must do as David and ask God to affect our heart and words: Psalm 19:14 “Let the words of my mouth, And the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.”

We are receivers of God’s grace and graciousness; let’s also be ministers of grace to others (Eph. 4:29).



Ron Cox – Director of HOPE Ministry