Proverbs 16:23
Those who are wise think carefully before they talk, and as a result they are able to influence/persuade others to do what is right.
Translation for Translators
In The King James Version
The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.
In Context
24Kind words are like honey [SIM]: We enjoy them both, and both cause our bodies to be healthy/strong.
Cross References
Job 15:2“If you were truly wise [RHQ], you would not have replied to us by claiming that you know a lot; what you are saying is just a lot of hot air [MET].
Psalms 45:1In my inner being I am stirred by a beautiful message which will be sung to the king. The words of this message will be written with a pen by me, a skilled writer.
Proverbs 15:7What wise people teach [MTY] causes others to know much more, but foolish people cannot teach others what is useful.
Proverbs 22:17Now listen [MTY] to what wise people have said; think carefully about what I am teaching you.
Colossians 3:16And continue to let the message about Christ govern/direct all you think and do, as you very wisely teach and warn one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs (OR, songs that God’s Spirit gives you), while you sincerely and thankfully sing to God.
Matthew Henry on Proverbs 16:23
22 Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly. Note, 1. There is always some good to be gotten by a wise and good man: His understanding is a well-spring of life to him, which always flows and can never be drawn dry; he has something to say upon all occasions that is instructive, and of use to those that will make use of it, things new and old to bring out of his treasure; at least, his understanding is a spring of life to himself, yielding him abundant… Read the whole commentary →