21 The wise in heart is called intelligent,
And the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.
22 Wisdom [is] a fountain of life for him that hath it;
But the instruction of fools [is] folly.
23 The heart of the wise instructeth his mouth,
The wise in heart is called intelligent, and so he is, and this inspires confidence. It differs much from what men call sagacity, which is feared rather than trusted. And the sweetness of lips which accompanies that wisdom increases learning all around. Wisdom is truly a fountain of life to him that has it, as he does not begrudge giving waters for those that do not have it. The instruction of fools can be nothing but folly and is fully exposed, because of the vain assumption they have to teach. How different when the heart of the wise instructs his mouth, as it does, and adds learning to his lips! For there is not only profit but growth. Such are indeed “pleasant words,” and they are as a honeycomb, sweet inwardly and strengthening outwardly.
W. Kelly