151 A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness.

3 The Lord is watching everywhere, keeping his eye on both the evil and the good.

4 Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 15:1-4

Commentary on Proverbs 15:1

(Read Proverbs 15:1)

A right cause will be better pleaded with meekness than with passion. Nothing stirs up anger like grievous words.

Commentary on Proverbs 15:2

(Read Proverbs 15:2)

He that has knowledge, is to use it aright, for the good of others.

Commentary on Proverbs 15:3

(Read Proverbs 15:3)

Secret sins, services, and sorrows, are under God's eye. This speaks comfort to saints, and terror to sinners.

Commentary on Proverbs 15:4

(Read Proverbs 15:4)

A good tongue is healing to wounded consciences, by comforting them; to sin-sick souls, by convincing them; and it reconciles parties at variance.