BSB
When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.
WEB
In the multitude of words there is no lack of disobedience, but he who restrains his lips does wisely.
KJV
In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.
Matthew Henry
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Verse 19
Proverbs 10:19
We are here admonished concerning the government of the tongue, that necessary duty of a Christian. 1. It is good to say little, because in the multitude of words there wanteth not sin, or sin doth not cease. Usually, those that speak much speak much amiss, and among many words there cannot but be many idle words, which they must shortly give an account of. Those that love to hear themselves talk do not consider what work they are making for repentance; for that will be wanted, and first or last will be had, where there wanteth not sin. 2. It is therefore good to keep our mouth as with a bridle: He that refrains his lips, that often checks himself, suppresses what he has thought, and holds in that which would transpire, is a wise man; it is an evidence of his wisdom, and he therein consults his own peace. Little said is soon amended, Amo 5:13; Jam 1:19.
Cross-references: Amos 5:13 · Jas 1:19