A thorn in the hand should be a relatively simple fix. A thorn in the hand of a drunkard, if even noticed, becomes unmanageable. The clumsy, thick-handed effort to extricate only drives the thorn further into the hand. So is the word of God that only proceeds from the mouth but does not originate in the heart. This is a sobering truth. Knowledge can be taught. Truth can be mentally grasped. Wisdom can even be skillfully presented by fools. But, if there is not a love for God, a life of wisdom marked by the fear of God and consistent conviction will not be pursued. The wisdom that comes from our mouths will only highlight our hypocrisy and wreak havoc and confusion in our own lives and in the lives of those who hear us. While this lesson should be considered by all, it is especially important for those who have an audience. The influence of our speaking is much more closely aligned to our example than it is to the skill of our speech. With influence comes great responsibility. The prayer of David should be our constant prayer: “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”