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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 284

STUDY 284

Text: Proverbs 25
3 December 2006

Dear Parents,

THE VALUE OF WORDS
Have you ever used a “thesaurus”? This is a very helpful aid to all wishing to find suitable synonyms and antonyms. It is a very welcome companion to a dictionary. What is a “thesaurus”? This word actually comes from a Greek source. The word literally means “treasure” (Greek “thesauros”).

Words may indeed be called “treasures”. Good words are to be especially treasured. Let us always challenge our children to love “good words”.

A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold
In settings of silver.
Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold
Is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear.

Proverbs 25:11-12

1. “A word fitly spoken”

a) A word must not only be good and wholesome.

b) It must also be “fitly spoken”.

2. The words of a rebuker

a) Good words are not meant to flatter the ear of the hearer.

b) Good words are sometimes used for the purpose of “rebuke”.

3. Words to a person who possesses an “obedient ear”

a) It is not easy to hear words of rebuke.

b) Only a wise person who has an obedient ear would be able to appreciate words of rebuke.

REMINDED OF THE WORDS OF THE APOSTLE PAUL
We are surely reminded of the words of the apostle Paul to Timothy.

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God,
and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof,
for correction, for instruction in righteousness.

2 Timothy 3:16

The Scriptures not only contain “doctrine” they also contain words of “reproof” and “correction”. To the wise and obedient, these words are like “apples of gold”. They may indeed be compared with golden ornaments, used for adornment.

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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