Apples of gold in a setting of silver

A Word Fitly Spoken
By Joni Eareckson Tada

Proverbs 20:15
There is gold, and an abundance of jewels;
But the lips of knowledge are a more precious thing.

Have you ever received a note or card at just the right time with just the right word of encouragement? 

It’s like getting a message straight from heaven, isn’t it? 

In Proverbs, Solomon writes, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” (Proverbs 25:11, ESV). 

We may minimize the words we speak or the efforts we make to lift someone’s heart or brighten someone’s day, but in God’s hands, those few words can make a world of difference. 

Just as careless, sarcastic, or dismissive words have the capacity to damage, warp, and kill, so a word of kindness—“a word fitly spoken”—can change the course of a day… or a life. 

Knowing this, why don’t we practice it even more? 

A notecard in the mail, a well-timed affirmation, or even a thoughtful email to a struggling soul may be among the most significant things you will accomplish—today or ever.

Thank You, Father, for those who have written timely notes or spoken words of hope and life to me through the years. Holy Spirit, show me where and how and when I can do this for others—both Your sons and daughters and those who are (for now) outside Your family. I don’t want to “just talk”; I want to speak words that You can use.

January 15, A Spectacle of Glory, 2016.
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**Thank you to Joni Tada, for all the encouragements through all the years.