Psalms 37:30
The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment.
Psalms 37:30: "The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment."
Psalm 37 is a wisdom psalm attributed to David, written to encourage trust in God amid prosperity of the wicked and apparent delays in justice. This verse highlights the character of the righteous: their speech is seasoned with wisdom and discernment about justice. The phrase “the mouth of the righteous” contrasts with the unrighteous who may boast or utter folly. In the ancient Near East, speech mattered deeply: what a person says reveals what governs their heart and aligns their life with God’s ways. Wisdom here is not merely cleverness; it includes right understanding of God, neighbor, and the order of creation. “Speaketh wisdom” implies practical discernment—truth-telling, prudence in decision-making, and guidance that honors God. “Tongue talketh of judgment” signals a readiness to speak about God’s righteous standards, justice, and the consequences of sin. The psalmist envisions a community where words uplift, correct kindly, and call people to accountability, while staying rooted in faith.
This verse emphasizes the establishing that true wisdom comes from a life grounded in God. Wisdom is not primarily human cleverness but discernment aligned with God’s will. The pairing with “judgment” points to divine justice operating through human speech—speaking truth, truth-telling about sin, and exhorting others toward repentance and moral integrity. It also highlights the moral weight of speech: words reveal what one worships, trusts, and loves. For believers, the verse reorients speech from self-assertion to godward responsibility—speaking truth with love, pursuing reconciliation, and defending the vulnerable. Theologically, it connects with the biblical theme that humans are image-bearers who reflect God’s wisdom when they speak justly and wisely.
Practice wise speaking in daily life: choose words that build trust, clarify truth, and avoid gossip or bitterness. In conversations at work, school, or home, pause to check whether your input is constructive, truthful, and measured. When you sense others resisting or facing injustice, speak with integrity, gently correcting where needed and pointing to God’s standards. If you’re unsure, ask clarifying questions rather than making bold, judgmental claims. For example, in workplace disputes, offer observations grounded in facts and invite moderation rather than escalating conflict. In parenting, model how to speak with wisdom—explain decisions, reveal the reasoning behind rules, and avoid harsh judgments. Remember that the tongue can either bless or harm; aim to “talk of judgment” in the sense of calling out wrongdoing with compassion while inviting transformation through God’s truth.
Cross-References: Proverbs 10:32; James 3:1-12; Colossians 4:6; Psalm 19:14; Ephesians 4:29