When we study some chapters of the book of Proverbs, we will notice that the author points out the way people act, exposing the attitudes and behaviors that shape human relationships. Proverbs speaks openly about liars, those who create contentions, those who are perverse, and those who intentionally seek ways to divide and destroy relationships, whether marriages, friendships, families, or communities. This book of wisdom does not hide the reality of human sin, but instead confronts it directly so that the people of God may walk with discernment.
The wisdom found in Proverbs is deeply practical. It teaches us that words are never neutral and that intentions matter greatly. Many conflicts do not begin with open hostility, but with subtle speech, half-truths, gossip, and manipulation. The author of Proverbs wants the reader to understand that relational destruction often begins quietly, long before it becomes visible.
That is why in the verse that we will see later, the misconduct of the bad man is clearly mentioned. This is the man who seeks to disturb peace, who cannot tolerate harmony, and who feels threatened by healthy relationships. Instead of rejoicing in unity, he actively looks for opportunities to inject suspicion, doubt, and division into the lives of others who are doing good.
This kind of behavior is especially dangerous because it often disguises itself as concern, advice, or harmless conversation. The wicked person may claim to be helping, warning, or simply “sharing information,” while in reality his words are carefully chosen to damage trust and sow discord. Proverbs repeatedly warns us to be alert to this subtle form of evil.
A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.
Proverbs 16:28
This proverb uses powerful imagery. The word “soweth” immediately draws our attention to the idea of intentionality. Just as a farmer deliberately plants seeds in the soil, the froward man deliberately plants conflict. Strife does not grow by accident in his presence; it is cultivated, nurtured, and patiently developed through repeated words and actions.
The term “froward” refers to someone who is twisted, morally corrupt, and resistant to what is right. Such a person does not stumble into wrongdoing unknowingly; he chooses it. His heart is bent toward division, and his satisfaction comes from seeing relationships weaken or collapse.
The proverb also speaks of a “whisperer,” highlighting the quiet and secretive nature of this destructive behavior. Whispering implies private conversations, confidential tones, and selective sharing of information. This is not open confrontation, but subtle persuasion. Through whispers, trust is eroded, misunderstandings grow, and even close friendships can be torn apart.
We can give a clear example of how the wicked man acts to practice evil. Just as a sower waters his seeds patiently, expecting a harvest in due time, the wicked man consistently feeds his words with repetition and persistence. He knows that division rarely happens overnight. Instead, it grows slowly as doubts accumulate and hearts are influenced.
In the same way that seeds require time to sprout, the damage caused by gossip and whispering often becomes visible only after relationships have already been weakened. Friends who once trusted each other begin to question motives. Marriages that once stood firm start to experience suspicion. Communities that once lived in unity become fragmented. All of this can trace its roots back to words spoken in secret.
It is good that by reading this article we become aware of this reality. As children of God, we must not allow these types of people to whisper in our ears. Listening is not a neutral act. When we give our ears to destructive speech, we become participants in its outcome. What we entertain in our minds will eventually influence our attitudes and actions.
If we allow such whispers, the wicked person will achieve his mission. However, if we analyze situations through the lens of Scripture, we will recognize the source behind this behavior. The Bible teaches us that the devil is the ultimate author of division. He is the accuser, the deceiver, and the enemy of peace. Those who sow strife are, knowingly or unknowingly, participating in his work.
God, on the other hand, is a God of peace, order, and reconciliation. He delights in unity among His people and calls believers to be peacemakers. This is why discernment is so important. Not every voice deserves our attention, and not every conversation deserves our participation.
Brothers, it is good that we affirm our steps in the Lord. To affirm our steps means to root our decisions, reactions, and relationships firmly in God’s truth. When the Lord directs our path, we are less likely to be influenced by harmful speech and deceptive intentions.
We must allow God to be the One who directs us every day, shaping our thoughts and guarding our hearts. Scripture reminds us that from the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Therefore, when our hearts are filled with God’s Word, we will be better equipped to discern which voices align with His will and which do not.
It is essential that we learn to hear only the whisper of God in our ears, through His Word and His Spirit, and not the whisper of a man who brings conflicts into human life. God’s whisper brings conviction, peace, wisdom, and truth. The whisper of the wicked brings confusion, suspicion, and destruction.
This teaching also calls us to examine our own speech. Are our words building others up, or are they quietly tearing relationships down? Wisdom is not only about avoiding evil influences, but also about refusing to become one. As believers, we are called to speak truth in love and to guard unity diligently.
May the Lord give us wisdom to recognize strife before it takes root, courage to reject whispering voices, and humility to submit our ears and hearts to His guidance. In doing so, we will protect our relationships, honor God, and walk in the wisdom that leads to life and peace.