What does Proverbs 25:12 teach about the value of wise counsel? Setting the Scene • Proverbs 25 forms part of the collection “also copied by the men of Hezekiah” (Proverbs 25:1), giving fresh attention to Solomon’s earlier sayings. • Verse 12 stands amid proverbs that compare words and actions to valuable objects, highlighting how speech can bless or harm. The Verse Itself “Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold is a wise rebuker to a listening ear.” (Proverbs 25:12) Imagery That Shines • “Earring of gold… ornament of fine gold” – costly, beautiful, treasured, and worn close to the body. • “Wise rebuker” – someone who offers correction rooted in truth and love, not harshness. • “A listening ear” – a heart ready to heed what God is saying through another person. Why Wise Counsel Is So Valuable • Rare and precious – Just as pure gold is scarce, so is counsel that aligns with God’s wisdom (Proverbs 20:15). • Adorns the life – Good counsel enhances character the way jewelry enhances appearance (Proverbs 1:9). • Enduring worth – Gold withstands time and fire; truth-based correction produces lasting righteousness (James 3:17). • Close and personal – Jewelry is worn on the body; godly counsel must be received internally to shape attitudes and choices (Psalm 141:5). Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 27:5-6 – “Better an open rebuke than hidden love… the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” • Proverbs 15:31 – “He who listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise.” • Proverbs 9:8-9 – Rebuke a wise man and he will love you and become wiser still. • 2 Timothy 3:16 – Scripture itself “is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” Practical Takeaways • Seek out “goldsmiths” – Surround yourself with believers whose words consistently reflect Scripture’s purity. • Cultivate a receptive spirit – Pray for ears that love truth more than ego. • Measure counsel by the Word – True wisdom matches God’s revealed standard, never contradicts it. • Value correction as treasure – Instead of bristling, thank God when He polishes your life through another’s faithful words. • Pass it on – Become the “wise rebuker” for others, sharing truth graciously and thereby adorning their lives with eternal beauty. When we welcome godly admonition, our lives gleam with the splendor of fine gold, bearing witness to the priceless worth of wisdom rooted in the Word. |
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