”A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” ~ Prov. 25:11
This verse is, at first reading, a bit humorous. I have no idea what ‘apples of gold in settings of silver’ means. Perhaps some kind of really ornate and gaudy decoration (think Versailles).
But one thing is clear—apples made of gold set into silver must have been pretty expensive. They would have been immensely valuable, and certainly rare.
Solomon compares these decorative items to a word ‘fitly spoken’ (ESV). The word translated ‘fitly’ comes from a word for turning, and is from the same root as ‘wheel’. It describes the turning of a moment when the word will fit perfectly into the life and heart of a person.
Why such value?
The value of a word in the right season is that it moves its hearer. Such a word is designed to bring the perfect help to a person in need—encouragement, admonishment, correction, praise, etc. And this is the value—the care of the soul of another.
I was recently reminded about this value when a friend sent me an encouraging email. I wouldn’t have expected it—in fact it was on the heels of a difficult circumstance. But it was fitting, and kind, and the Lord used it with great value in my heart in trusting Him.
As we walk in the Spirit, we often see needs around us. And many of those needs can be met with a simple word, fitly spoken. Whether encouragement, admonishment, or others, the words that come from a heart relying on Christ can build up those around us.
And when it comes to words that build up, let me encourage you to point out those things that are spiritually encouraging to your brothers and sisters in Christ. It will be like apples of gold in settings of silver…whatever that means!
