Proverbs 15:23

NASB	NLT	VOICE
23 A person has joy in an apt answer, And how delightful is a timely word!	23 Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!	23 There is great joy in having the right answer, and how sweet is the right word at the right time!

God’s Wisdom in Text

In biblical context, wisdom literature emphasizes the power of words and the importance of speaking with discernment. The joy mentioned here can be viewed as a reflection of peace and righteousness that comes from aligning our words with God’s wisdom .In the cultural context of ancient Israel, communication was direct and personal, making the intentionality of what we say crucial in keeping relationships and community harmony. The goodness of a timely word can be viewed as a reflection of God’s providence, as God uses people to deliver messages of encouragement, correction, or guidance when the moment is needed. Through Jesus, His words offered comfort, teaching, and rebuke. 

Words of Wisdom in Our Everyday Life

Words spoken at the right time can have a profound impact. How many times have we needed a word of encouragement or comfort to have it ignored, be overly-positive, or something in between? When we need the right word, we are looking for something to fit our situation that we’re in. We can have a hard time communicating that situation to others through, so some people want to fill in the gaps to offer something positive because it’s more comfortable that way or to problem solve because no one wants to see those we care about suffer. However, sometimes it’s okay to say nothing. To sit in the moment with someone and just be present. To allow them to take the lead and speak when they are ready or just to sit there. It’s easy to get in our heads when we’re struggling and think that no one is with us. God didn’t create us to do life alone. God created us to do life together, in relationships and in community. When we’re struggling we must work to avoid the temptation of isolation and seek help, guidance, encouragement, and motivation. To allow the Spirit to speak even when the words we say may not be helpful. We can work towards intentionally listening to each other and allowing time and the Spirit to work through our hands and feet to start caring for each other as God cares for us. 

Reflection Questions

1. Do you have a favorite verse from the Wisdom literature? What verse is it? Why is it your favorite?
2. Have you ever received words from a caring person that didn’t quite sit with you? How did you respond to that situation?
3. Have you ever given words of encouragement to someone that didn’t respond to it with love? How did you respond to that situation?

Call to Action

Read James 3:17. Thank God for His wisdom that He gives us through His words and leaders that help us navigate in our everyday lives. Allow us to study this verse to understand his wisdom. Ask Him different ways we can receive that wisdom and reflect it to others in our everyday life. 

Check out the next slice of Manna: Manna for the Mind #290