A Word Fitly Spoken

A word fitly spoken is like apples of goldIn settings of silver.Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine goldIs a wise rebuker to an obedient ear.Like the cold of snow in time of harvestIs a faithful messenger to those who send him,For he refreshes the soul of his masters.

Proverbs 25:11-13 (NKJV)

An appropriate word spoken at the right time for the right reason and in the right way is both valuable and beautiful. Ladies, can you see how much our world is lacking for women to speak up for right, and true, and good things?

Uncle Tom’s Cabin is one of the most tender, spiritual, and moving books I have ever read. It was written at a time when slaves were treated as merchandise, even women and children. It woke people up and caused them to care. When Abraham Lincoln met the author, Harriet Beecher Stowe, he said, “So you’re the little woman who wrote the book that started this great war.” Her words were used to stir others to do the right thing. Words—words can have great power for good.

Jon Courson says, “If you have a heart that wants to obey the Lord and learn of him, you’ll receive the word of a wise reprover as gladly as you would receive a beautiful, gold earring.”

I’ll close today with Proverbs 15:31-32: “He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise. He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding” (NIV).

Make It Personal . . . Live It Out!

God often sends a message of rebuke, exhortation, warning, or comfort in the form of a story or a word picture. Nathan the prophet confronted David’s sin by telling the story of a little lamb that was stolen. Jesus taught us not to worry by looking at the well-fed birds. Of all the books you will ever read, you will never learn more about yourself and the meaning of life than from reading God’s Word. His Word is powerful, it is light, it breaks strongholds, it heals broken hearts, it gives hope, it transforms your thoughts. Most of all, the greatest benefit is that in his Word, God reveals himself. It indeed is a word fitly spoken.

One Year Bible Reading

Jeremiah 22:1–23:20; 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12; Psalm 83:1-18; Proverbs 25:11-14