Speaking Wisdom: A Proverbs driven Life Chapter 2
The Marks of Wise Words
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” Proverbs 25:11, ESV
Chapter opens with a summarized account of Israel’s fateful encounter with the Gibeonites.
“we are reminded just how easy—and how harmful—it can be to speak foolishly. Unwise words are no rare event,
being, unfortunately, very common among Christians” Anthony Selvaggio pg. 17
“For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to
bridle his whole body.” James 3:2, ESV
“but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” James 3:8, ESV
“If no one can completely avoid foolish words, then in one sense our speech is a lifelong exercise in damage control.
Have you ever hurt someone with hasty, careless words? Ever spread a rumor that proved to be untrue? Ever joined in
gossip?” Anthony Selvaggio Pg. 18
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it
may give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29, ESV
“Scripture repeatedly tells us to bless and encourage one another with our words. Therefore, our speech is much more
than damage control. It’s also a lifelong effort to pass along to others the grace and love God has given us” - Ibid pg.
19
“So while we must be cautious about our words, we can also be hopeful. God is eager to be at work through us as we
speak. For most of us, each day offers numerous opportunities to speak wisely, in matters both small and
great” Anthony Selvaggio pg. 19
Discussion of Proverbs 25:11
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” Proverbs 25:11, ESV
“ Such words are like gold: They are inherently and universally valuable and attractive.”
• Indeed, they are like apples of gold: Their value and attractiveness has been enhanced through skillful craftsmanship
that has molded them into a pleasing form.• These words are in a setting: They are presented in a way that is perfectly
fitted to the circumstances.
The setting is silver: Although attractive in itself, its very attractiveness enhances its primary purpose—to display the
unique beauty of that which it holds. Such words are described as being “aptly spoken.” “Apt” is not a term you hear
every day. It means “exactly suitable; appropriate.”
What makes for such suitable and appropriate speech? How does one go through the day crafting words that are like
golden apples in silver settings? I believe Proverbs teaches us that such speech—speech that is biblically wise—can
be seen as involving three essential components: thoughtfulness, timeliness, and truth.
To embrace the wisdom of Proverbs 25:11 of a fitly spoken word three things:
Thoughtful
“The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil
things.” Proverbs 15:28, ESV
There is no rewind function on our words. We can never truly take back what we say, as much as we might wish to
from time to time. How important, therefore, that we learn from the vivid imagery of this proverb. Do you want your
speech to be thoughtful and measured, or
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