The Right Word at the Right Time
1There are also these proverbs of Solomon,
collected by scribes of Hezekiah, king of Judah.
2God delights in concealing things;
scientists delight in discovering things.
3Like the horizons for breadth and the ocean for depth,
the understanding of a good leader is broad and deep.
4-5Remove impurities from the silver
and the silversmith can craft a fine chalice;
Remove the wicked from leadership
and authority will be credible and God-honoring.
6-7Don’t work yourself into the spotlight;
don’t push your way into the place of prominence.
It’s better to be promoted to a place of honor
than face humiliation by being demoted.
8Don’t jump to conclusions—there may be
a perfectly good explanation for what you just saw.
9-10In the heat of an argument,
don’t betray confidences;
Word is sure to get around,
and no one will trust you.
11-12The right word at the right time
is like a custom-made piece of jewelry,
And a wise friend’s timely reprimand
is like a gold ring slipped on your finger.
13Reliable friends who do what they say
are like cool drinks in sweltering heat—refreshing!
14Like billowing clouds that bring no rain
is the person who talks big but never produces.
15Patient persistence pierces through indifference;
gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses.
16-17When you’re given a box of candy, don’t gulp it all down;
eat too much chocolate and you’ll make yourself sick;
And when you find a friend, don’t outwear your welcome;
show up at all hours and he’ll soon get fed up.
18Anyone who tells lies against the neighbors
in court or on the street is a loose cannon.
19Trusting a double-crosser when you’re in trouble
is like biting down on an abscessed tooth.
20Singing light songs to the heavyhearted
is like pouring salt in their wounds.
21-22If you see your enemy hungry, go buy him lunch;
if he’s thirsty, bring him a drink.
Your generosity will surprise him with goodness,
and God will look after you.
23A north wind brings stormy weather,
and a gossipy tongue stormy looks.
24Better to live alone in a tumbledown shack
than share a mansion with a nagging spouse.
25Like a cool drink of water when you’re worn out and weary
is a letter from a long-lost friend.
26A good person who gives in to a bad person
is a muddied spring, a polluted well.
27It’s not smart to stuff yourself with sweets,
nor is glory piled on glory good for you.
28A person without self-control
is like a house with its doors and windows knocked out.
All Prayed Up:
Gracious and Heavenly Father,
In this moment of reflection, I turn my heart and thoughts towards the wisdom found in Proverbs 25. Your word reminds us that your teachings are like hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, and I come before you, eager to uncover the riches of your truth.
Lord, grant me the patience and perseverance to seek out these hidden gems of wisdom in my daily life. Just as it is the glory of kings to search out a matter, let me approach each day with a hunger for understanding, a heart open to learning, and a spirit attuned to your guidance.
Help me, O God, to be mindful of the humility that befits me. Show me the beauty of stepping back and allowing others to recognize the value I carry, rather than striving for attention and recognition. May I emulate the example set by Jesus, who humbled himself for the sake of love.
Guide me, Heavenly Father, in the art of giving gentle and thoughtful counsel. Just as cooling water quenches thirst, may my words refresh and soothe those around me. Let my advice be steeped in your wisdom, always leading others closer to you and fostering unity among your children.
Lord, help me to be patient and slow to anger, understanding that a patient spirit is more powerful than one that reacts impulsively.
In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
All Songed Up:
Never Gonna Break My Faith Aretha Franklin (feat. The Boys Choir of Harlem)
Until Next Time
I Love You Family
Mwah!
Remember, God Can Use Your Words and
Be Good To One Another
