Proverbs 10:31

The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out.

Proverbs 10:31 (KJV)

Context

Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings, most of them tied to King Solomon. Its purpose is to give practical guidance for living in a way that honors God. This verse belongs to a series of short contrasts between the righteous and the wicked, especially in how they speak.

Meaning

The first part of the verse says, “The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom.” The word “just” means righteous or upright. Such a person is in right standing with God. Their speech is not empty or harmful; it produces wisdom, understanding, and guidance for others. This is a responsibility, not just a gift. Righteous people are to use their words to build up and instruct.

The second part says, “but the froward tongue shall be cut out.” The word “froward” means perverse, crooked, or deceitful. It describes a tongue that speaks lies, wickedness, or malice. The image of being “cut out” is strong. It means judgment and removal. God will deal decisively with persistent deceitful speech. The contrast is clear: wisdom flows from a righteous heart, while perverse speech leads to punishment.

Biblical connections

This verse echoes the wider teaching of Proverbs that the heart and the tongue are connected. A heart shaped by God’s wisdom will naturally speak what is true and helpful. A heart that is crooked will produce crooked words. The same contrast appears in Proverbs 10:20, where the tongue of the just is compared to choice silver, while the heart of the wicked is of little worth.

Application

Believers are called to guard their words. Before speaking, it is wise to ask whether the words are true, kind, and useful. Speech that is honest and gracious reflects a heart that is being changed by God. Speech that is deceitful or harmful invites discipline. The verse does not promise that every word will be perfect, but it sets the direction: the mouth of the righteous should be a source of wisdom, not of harm.

Reflection

Consider the words that come out of your mouth in a normal day. Do they bring wisdom to others, or do they tear down? The promise of this verse is that a righteous life produces speech that helps. The warning is that perverse speech will not last. Let this verse encourage you to seek God’s wisdom in your heart, so that your tongue becomes a channel of blessing.