The book of Proverbs is full of wise sayings. It uses beautiful imagery and figurative language to vividly describe characteristics of wisdom as well as those who seek it. In Proverbs 10, there is a refrain throughout the chapter. The phrase “the words of the godly” repeats multiple times with various similes explaining these words. In my spirit I heard, “Pay attention to this phrase”. God didn’t want me to skim through the verses and overlook key elements. Let’s discuss the characteristics of “the words of the godly”. In doing so, we can determine if our words are such as well as how they can minister to others.
Metaphors are used to express “the words of the godly”. They are described as a life-giving fountain. How can words be a fountain of water? Let me paint a picture for you. Imagine going for a long summer walk in North Carolina. If you’ve visited the area during the summer months, then you’ve experienced a humidity unlike any other. A quick ten-minute walk will easily become a sticky, sweat fest. Now imagine that on this walk, you forgot your precious water bottle at home! You long for a cool taste of water as you trek along. The words of the godly are like a thirst-quenching drink of water. They are refreshing. They give life to a weary soul. Are you speaking words of life?
Another type of figurative language used in chapter 10 is the simile. “The words of the godly” are compared to “sterling silver”. At first glance, this seems like a mundane comparison. Why are these words not compared to something more valuable such as gold or diamonds? Let me describe what comes to mind when I think of sterling silver. As a teenager, Valentine’s Day was a huge deal. In an effort to show that we were deeply loved, my parents bought my sisters and I bracelets from Jenny Kay. The priceless sterling silver was delicately twisted into lovely heart shapes. With pride, I took special care of each bracelet. They had their own jewelry box to prevent entanglement. If they tarnished, then a solution was applied to restore their brilliance. To this day, I still have each one. For me, comparing these words to sterling silver immediately caused me to appreciate their worth. Are your words valuable?
Words are so powerful. Do you guard the gates of your lips? We should strive to speak life-giving words to those around us. A timely word of kindness can change a person’s entire day. When our words are valuable, they bring something to the conversation. We are not simply chatting idly to fill empty space. Instead, these godly words edify those who are listening to them. So, how are your words ministering to those around you? Let’s purpose to speak godly words of wisdom!
Be encouraged! 😊
Scripture References: Proverbs 10: 11 (NLT) “The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain; the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions.”
Proverbs 10:20 (NLT) “The words of the godly are like sterling silver; the heart of a fool is worthless.”
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