WORDS AND WORK WILL COME BACK TO US

Words and works have consequences. This is pretty plainly obvious in the world. What we speak, and what we do, have consequences. At times very serious consequences. This is precisely what Solomon says in Proverbs twelve.
– “14 From the fruit of his mouth a man is satisfied with good, and the work of a man’s hand comes back to him.” – Proverbs 12:14

What Solomon is attempting to enlighten is, and also warn us is something we should take seriously. Especially since our words and our works have consequences, and that they will ultimately come back to us. Solomon is wanting our attention to be drawn to two specific things.
– FROM THE FRUIT OF HIS MOUTH A MAN IS SATISFIED WITH GOOD
– THE WORK OF A MAN’S HAND COMES BACK TO HIM

What is written by Solomon in Proverbs 12:14, is actually what the LORD is wanting to speak with us. The LORD is using the words of Solomon to convey to us His heart, and His wisdom on this matter.  The LORD has spoken about similar things at other places too, in the Bible. Let us read them…

1- FROM THE FRUIT OF HIS MOUTH A  IS SATISFIED WITH GOOD
– “2 A man shall eat well by the fruit of his mouth, But the soul of the unfaithful feeds on violence.” – Proverbs 13:2
– “20 A man’s stomach shall be satisfied from the fruit of his mouth; From the produce of his lips he shall be filled.” – Proverbs 18:20
– “11 The mouth of the righteous is a well of life, But violence covers the mouth of the wicked.” – Proverbs 10:11

2- THE WORK OF A MAN’S HAND COMES BACK TO HIM
– “2 When you eat the labour of your hands, You shall be happy, and it shall be well with you.” – Psalm 128:2
– “11 For He repays man according to his work, And makes man to find a reward according to his way.” – Job 34:11
– “10 I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his doings.” – Jeremiah 17:10

The underlying biblical principle of “cause” and “effect” is at play in Proverbs 12:14. The Bible speaks about a principle which we observe in nature also – “What we show, is what we reap.” The sowing is our part through our words and our works. While reaping is the divine judgement of all our words and our works.
– “7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” – Galatians 6:7-10
– “The principle of sowing and reaping is evident in both speech and action. What we invest in terms of words and deeds will return to us, either as a blessing or a consequence.” – Berean Study Bible Notes

Dear brothers and sisters as we enter into a new work week, let us pause and ponder about all our words and our works. Let us not forget that we will reap the consequences of the same. Also, and above all, the LORD Jesus will bring everything we speak, and everything we do into judgement. Hence, let us be mindful of our words and works. Let us ensure that they are in line with the LORD, glorifying His name, and upholding His honour. When we do so, the blessings of the LORD will overtake us, and will fill us to the brim – Deuteronomy 28:1-2. Even so, the LORD Jesus help us.