Proverbs 18:20
“A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.”
Proverbs 18:20 in 7 translations
- KJVKing James Version
- A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.
- DRADouay–Rheims
- Of the fruit of a man's mouth shall his belly be satisfied: and the offspring of his lips shall fill him.
- ASVAmerican Standard Version
- A man's belly shall be filled with the fruit of his mouth; With the increase of his lips shall he be satisfied.
- DARBYDarby
- A man's belly is satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; with the increase of his lips is he satisfied.
- WEBThe World English Bible
- A man's stomach is filled with the fruit of his mouth. With the harvest of his lips he is satisfied.
- YLTYoung's Literal Translation
- From the fruit of a man's mouth is his belly satisfied, From the increase of his lips he is satisfied.
- BPVBiblePics Version
- A person’s hunger is satisfied by the words they speak; the increase of their lips fills them.
Context: Proverbs 18
18The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.
19A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.
20A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.
21Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
22Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD.
About Proverbs 18: Words Have Power
Proverbs 18 reveals that words have tremendous power to build up or tear down, to bring life or death. It encourages us to be careful with our words and to use them wisely, for our words have the potential to deeply impact ourselves and others.
Commentary
This chapter emphasizes the importance of self-control and discernment when it comes to speaking. It warns against hasty judgments, gossip, and flattery, which can lead to shame and destruction. Conversely, it highlights the value of wise counsel, humility, and listening to both accurate and opposing viewpoints. The chapter also reminds us that our words can be a source of healing, comfort, and wisdom. Ultimately, Proverbs 18 reinforces the idea that the power of our words lies not only in what we say but also in how we say it.