What does Proverbs 20:15 teach about the value of wise counsel? Setting the Scene “There is gold and an abundance of rubies, but lips of knowledge are a rare treasure.” (Proverbs 20:15) What the Proverb Declares • Gold and rubies—symbols of wealth, luxury, and desirability • “Lips of knowledge”—speech shaped by wisdom, truth, and godly insight • “Rare treasure”—something exceedingly scarce, precious, and worth seeking Key Observation Material riches are plentiful compared to the scarcity of voices that speak God-honoring wisdom. Wise counsel is therefore presented as surpassingly valuable. Why Wise Counsel Outshines Gold 1. Lasting Impact • Gold can be spent or lost; wisdom equips for every season (Proverbs 3:13-15). • “How much better to acquire wisdom than gold!” (Proverbs 16:16). 2. Protection and Guidance • Riches can create false security; counsel steers away from ruin (Proverbs 11:14). • “Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days” (Proverbs 19:20). 3. Alignment with God’s Character • Wise speech reflects God’s own knowledge (James 1:5). • It builds others up, unlike wealth that may puff up (Ephesians 4:29). Practical Takeaways • Seek voices soaked in Scripture before chasing profits. • Measure advice not by the speaker’s status but by alignment with God’s Word. • Invest time with mentors who fear the Lord; their counsel is treasure in plain sight. • Offer “lips of knowledge” yourself—become that rare blessing for others. Living It Out • Center every decision in prayerful reflection on Scripture. • Filter worldly advice through verses like Proverbs 20:15; ask, “Is this counsel truly wise?” • Store up wisdom deliberately—daily Bible reading, fellowship, and humble listening. Closing Reflection Gold and rubies dazzle, but true riches flow from godly counsel. Make it your aim to treasure and share those “lips of knowledge” that Scripture esteems above all earthly wealth. |
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