Read Proverbs 25:11–15
Questions from the Scripture text: How is the word in Proverbs 25:11 spoken? How is the word in Proverbs 25:12 received? What sort of messenger does Proverbs 25:13 describe? Whom does he refresh? What other sort of messenger does Proverbs 25:14 describe? What is he like? What two characteristics does the speaker in Proverbs 25:15 have? How does verse 15 describe his power?
What must our speech be like? Proverbs 25:11–15 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that our speech should be fitting, faithful, and forbearing.
Fitting speech. It is a truly beautiful thing when someone says the right thing, at the right time, with the right words, in the right way (Proverbs 25:11). We should not be satisfied merely with speech that is accurate. We ought to strive, by grace for speech that is fitting. And we ought to listen in a fitting manner as well—even (especially!) to rebuke. If we receive it as a kindness from God, we will find it to be truly beautiful.
Faithful speech. It is also a great blessing to the sender, when he knows that he doesn’t have to worry at all about the message being delivered, and with the sort of speech from Proverbs 25:11. When there is a message to be sent, there may be some stress about whether it will get there, or get across. But, in the hands of a faithful messenger, the message will be sure, and the sender’s soul will be refreshed (Proverbs 25:13). We wish to be faithful in speech as those sent, ultimately, by the Lord Himself, so that our speech will be always with grace (cf. Colossians 4:5–6). The fool, on the other hand, is all talk; when the substance and follow-through are absent, the situation is worse for his having spoken at all (Proverbs 25:14).
Forbearing speech. Finally, godly speech will be forbearing. It should be careful, thought-through, and humbly spoken. This is the sort of speech that persuades even rulers. It is much stronger, as with bone-breaking power, than gruff or hasty speech.
How are you working on speaking in a fitting, faithful, and forbearing manner? How do you receive wise rebukes?
Sample prayer: Lord, thank You for making us to be speaking creatures, and for interacting with us as a speaking God. Thank You that Christ is the eternal Word, as well as our ultimate Prophet. Grant that, in our speech, we would image You as creatures and imitate You as children, by the grace of Christ, through Whom we pray, AMEN!
Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside?” or TPH73B “Yes, God Is Good to Israel”