In many traditions of thought and cultures around the world, happiness is not only generated by stimuli that occur outside of us. Rather, it is through the ability to cultivate the intellect, harmonise the heart, and exercise self-control. Many people strive for this with various self-control exercises. But our reading today shows that such self-control comes through a life directed towards God's wisdom and discernment.

Two verses in chapter 20 are an invitation to the people to control their often unbridled words. The word contention in verse 3 indicates this. Conflict is an inevitable part of everyday life. But conflicts often get out of hand when one or both parties cannot restrain themselves. One of the signs is through words spoken in the spirit of defeating the other party and emphasising personal ego. Such arguments are the beginning of endless quarrels. According to our reading, this is the sign of a foolish person who does not submit to the teachings of wisdom.

Relationships can also be damaged when gossiping occurs. Talking about others with the intention of bringing them down and demonising them. It is emphatically said in our reading not to associate with people who leak their mouths. Wisdom occurs when one can control oneself from the temptation to gossip about others.

God's wisdom actually leads us to become a whole person. Having knowledge, wisdom, and self-control, which is most fundamentally realised through the control of words. Aren't we often trapped in difficult situations because of the words we consciously or unconsciously speak? So let us live in God's wisdom at all times.