What is the meaning of Proverbs 15:23? A man takes joy • God designed speech not just for information but for delight. When what comes out of our mouths honors Him, it fills the speaker with gladness (Proverbs 12:14, “From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things,”). • Joy here is not shallow amusement; it’s the deep satisfaction of knowing our words have pleased the Lord and built up another person (Proverbs 10:32; 3 John 4). • Right words become evidence of a heart aligned with wisdom, producing an inward celebration that reflects the character of Christ (Matthew 12:35). in a fitting reply • “Fitting” points to words that match the need, the listener, and the moment—never flippant, harsh, or self-serving (Ephesians 4:29, “only what is good for building up…”). • Scripture likens a well-chosen answer to “apples of gold in settings of silver” (Proverbs 25:11); it’s beautiful and valuable because it meets the occasion precisely. • A fitting reply flows from: – Careful listening first (James 1:19). – A heart governed by love (1 Corinthians 13:1). – A commitment to truth (Proverbs 24:26). • Such answers often diffuse anger (Proverbs 15:1) and steer a conversation toward righteousness. —and how good • “How good” signals measurable benefit. Good words: – Heal (Proverbs 12:18, “the tongue of the wise brings healing,”). – Nourish the soul (Proverbs 16:24, “pleasant words are a honeycomb”). – Direct people toward godliness (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Goodness here is moral, emotional, and practical. It blesses both the speaker and the hearer, creating an atmosphere where the peace of Christ can flourish (Colossians 3:15–16). is a timely word! • Timing amplifies impact. Even true statements can harm if spoken at the wrong moment; wisdom waits for God’s perfect window (Ecclesiastes 3:7, “a time to be silent and a time to speak,”). • The servant of the Lord seeks that timing through prayer and attentiveness (Isaiah 50:4, “to know how to sustain the weary with a word”). • Practical marks of a timely word: – It meets an immediate need (Proverbs 25:13). – It arrives when emotions are open to receive (Acts 8:35–36). – It aligns with the Spirit’s promptings rather than personal impulse (John 14:26). • When timing and content intersect, words become a channel of grace, guidance, and sometimes even eternal change (John 4:39–42). summary Proverbs 15:23 celebrates the God-given pleasure that springs from speaking wisely. A person experiences joy when his answer fits the moment, serves the hearer, and lands at just the right time. Such speech is inherently good, carrying healing, strength, and delight. Pursuing the Lord’s wisdom in our words allows us to share in that joy and to extend His goodness wherever we speak. |
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