A word spoken at the right time is like gold apples in silver settings. (Proverbs 25:11 CSB)
A trustworthy envoy refreshes the life of his masters. (Proverbs 25:13 CSB)
Good news from a distant land is like cold water to a parched throat. (Proverbs 25:25 CSB)
The book of Proverbs is full of quaint sayings that are designed to drop wisdom into our spirit. I’ve discovered through the years that each chapter is worthy of my attention and typically has a running theme that is easily seen. Such is the case in Proverbs chapter 25. In my morning reading, the theme that spoke most clearly to me had to do with relationships and how they can build and encourage the ones we associate with.
A word spoken at the right time is like gold apples in silver settings. (Proverbs 25:11 CSB)
Verse 11 reveals the power of words spoken at the right time. The other day, I was reading in the book of Job and was impacted by the effect of Job’s friends upon him. At first, they simply sat in silence. Sometimes silence is as golden as words fitly spoken. Remaining quiet enables us to discern the situation properly so that when we do speak, our words are appropriate and timely.
WISDOM PRINCIPLE Seek to speak an appropriate word at the right time so that it will be "frameable" (valuable) to the hearer.
A trustworthy envoy refreshes the life of his masters. (Proverbs 25:13 CSB)
This verse speaks to relationships with our superiors. We have been so indoctrinated with the idea that our “rights” are the most important thing. Although no one wants or likes to be mistreated, the reality is that we all have someone in our life that “out ranks” us. We are in their lives to do their bidding. Our job then, is to represent them in such a way that it refreshes them.
I’ve told the story of a man that I know who worked for a major employer for many years. I mentioned what a blessing it must have been to have a stable job that provided for his family’s needs, He responded by saying very humbly, “They were blessed to have me as an employee! I made it my mission to work with excellence and help them prosper. My faithful service was not only a blessing to them, but to me and the other employees who worked there.” This man had it right! Christians are to live in such a way that our existence is refreshing to everyone in our circle of influence.
I have served in leadership roles for many years now and I can tell you that there is nothing more frustrating than dealing with difficult individuals. Their selfishness refreshes no one. Not even themselves!
WISDOM PRINCIPLE Be on the constant look out for opportunities to refresh others; sharing your blessings from the Lord to all who may benefit from them.
Good news from a distant land is like cold water to a parched throat. (Proverbs 25:25 CSB)
I’ve discovered that I never really know where my next refreshing will come from. I know this… a thirsty man benefits greatly from a good drink of water. Likewise, someone who is emotionally, physically, and spiritually parched needs a cool drink of good news! Share what the Lord has done for you on a regular basis. Your testimony can provide the cool drink of water that is needed. Don’t unleash discouraging words on already parched people.
Take your personal concerns to the Lord in prayer! If necessary, share your prayer requests with a mature Believer who knows how to intercede in prayer on your behalf without it negatively affecting their own faith. Remember, “…If two of you on earth agree about any matter that you pray for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven.” (Matthew 18:19 CSB)
WISDOM PRINCIPLE Always guard against unleashing a barrage of troubles on a vulnerable soul. Instead, be a dispenser of good news so your words will relieve their parched throat.
Scripture is full of powerful information that is designed to mature our faith and increase our influence. Let’s determine to put this wisdom to work and let the Word of the Lord work mightily in us!
PRAYER: Father, Your wisdom concerning relationships is immense and powerful. May I seek to put these wisdom principles to work in my relationships for the benefit of others and myself. I am Your envoy. Let my life refresh You and make You proud. Amen
Thinking Out Loud 