‘That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge.’ Proverbs 5:2
This verse follows the admonition in verse 1 to listen to wisdom and understanding, highlighting the purpose of such listening: to cultivate discretion and preserve knowledge. Discretion here refers to the ability to make wise decisions, especially in the face of temptation or moral challenges. It suggests a careful consideration of actions and their consequences, an attribute that keeps one aligned with God's ways. The mention of lips keeping knowledge points to the importance of speech that reflects this wisdom—words that are thoughtful, true, and edifying.
Comparing this with other scriptures, Proverbs 2:11 states, "Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee." This verse reinforces the protective nature of discretion, showing that it acts as a safeguard against the pitfalls of life. When one exercises discretion, they are shielded from making rash decisions that lead to sin or harm. Similarly, Proverbs 4:24 advises, "Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee." This instruction aligns with the second part of Proverbs 5:2, emphasizing the need to guard one's speech, ensuring that it reflects godly knowledge rather than corruption.
The practical application of Proverbs 5:2 involves being intentional in how we live and speak. Discretion calls us to consider the moral and spiritual implications of our choices, particularly in a world full of distractions and temptations. It means being aware of the subtle dangers that can lead us away from God's path and making decisions that honor Him. Keeping knowledge on our lips involves more than just avoiding sinful speech; it means actively speaking truth, encouragement, and wisdom into the lives of others. As Jesus taught in Matthew 12:34, "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh." Therefore, to keep knowledge on our lips, we must first fill our hearts with God's wisdom, allowing it to guide both our decisions and our words.