Proverbs 25.11-12
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver. Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear.”
What you say is important. So is why you say it, how you say it, and when. The wise person knows when to speak up, and when to keep silent. Fools, on the other hand, speak all the time, without regard for the circumstance.
Verse 11 tells us to speak the right words at the right time, and it uses an analogy to make its point. The “word” (probably advice that is given) is like an “apple of gold.” It has value, but when spoken at the right time, it’s as if the gold apple is given a setting of silver. It enhances its value.
Verse 12 addresses the need for a receptive listener when giving advice. In particular, it refers to a word of correction. A wise person listens to correction, but not the fool. The wise person understands the value — like gold — of insightful advice and correction.
“A fool despises his father’s instruction, but whoever heeds reproof is prudent.” (Proverbs 15.5)
The central theme of the book of Proverbs is be teachable and learn wisdom. Proverbs often uses the metaphor of a father instructing his son is used, because our Heavenly Father seeks to instruct us just like earthly fathers seek to instruct their children. It is a foolish child who rejects his father’s instruction; it is a wise child who responds to direction and correction from his father.
There is a way that God wants us to go about life. There are standards he wants us to know and obey. There is a path he wants us to follow. The Christin life is learning to stay on the path, and being responsive to Lord’s correction and reproof when we stray off-path.
“A scoffer does not like to be reproved; he will not go to the wise.” (Proverbs 15:12)
