When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.
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.
In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin,.... Where a great deal is said, without care and forethought, there will not only be many weak things uttered, but much falsehood, and at least many idle things, which cannot be excused from sin; not but that much and long speaking may be to great profit and advantage, when it is with care and judgment, and...
Much speech involves risk of sin; hence the wisdom of restraining the tongue (Psa 39:1; Jam 1:26).