A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. (12) Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold is a wise rebuke to an obedient ear. (Pro 25:11-12)
A word fitly spoken implies words of wise counsel given just in the nick of time, even as events unfold. Comparing this word of wise guidance to golden apples set in a woven, silver basket is designed to help us to realize just how valuable and desirable this advice is to the person who receives it. Unless we value and use such guidance, which is sent to us by God through another human being, it cannot help us!
Along similar lines, verse 12 of Proverbs 25 wants us to open our eyes to this truth: those who want to KNOW and DO rightly are the people who most highly cherish good counsel. For a listening ear [listening for the voice of the Holy Spirit] surpasses one hung with gold!
Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. (Pro 9:9)
The ear that hears the rebukes of life will abide among the wise. (Pro 15:31)
It’s spiritually healthy for us to remember that all children receive instruction and rebuke from a loving parent. The Lord will send us wisdom, instruction, and correction through other people. This message from the Lord can turn our lives around; help us to make mid-course corrections, and help us to avoid shipwreck in the future.
The moral of this article is that all of us who believe in Jesus Christ need to have an obedient and receptive ear, and to be willing to receive correction.
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