God is the ultimate fountain of life (Psalm 36:9; Jeremiah 2:13; Jeremiah 17:13). Therefore, his Word brings life and health. Think of Peter’s words to Jesus: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68). When we drink from the words of Christ, we also have words of life to share with others. We then become like ever-flowing fountains that bring joy, comfort, and eternal life through our words.
On the other hand, mouths can also bring terrible violence and destruction. Think of the mouth of King Saul, or the mouths of the Sanhedrin that condemned Jesus.
Foolish people will spread their ideas at any moment and in any place, no matter what may come of it. But wise people “lay up knowledge,” to share it at the right opportunity (Proverbs 10:14). They know that timing matters.
11 The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.