Read
11The right word
at the right time
is like precious gold
set in silver.
12Listening to good advice
is worth much more
than jewelry made of gold.
13A messenger you can trust
is just as refreshing
as cool water in summer.
14Broken promises
are worse than rain clouds
that don't bring rain.
15Patience and gentle talk
can convince a ruler
and overcome any problem.
Reflect
In a world where lip-service, distorted truths and blatant fabrications dominate the Internet and every “alt-media” piece going, it’s difficult to know what is real and what isn’t. This uncertainty has created mounting frustration and a widespread yearning for authenticity, whether it’s from news sources, the restaurant we’re dining at, or the people we surround ourselves with.
Having genuine friends and family whose words and actions we can trust allows us to truly value their opinions. It’s indeed a coveted and rare gift, worth more than exquisite jewellery made of gold (v 13) or platinum for that matter!
Ensuring we are the type of people whose words are genuine and meaningful should be a big priority in our lives. It’s easy to ramble on about any old subject, but thinking carefully about what we say before we say it, making each word count, and ensuring our ideas hold meaning and truth is something we should strive for.
When we make our words intentional, big things can happen. Relationships, whether in the workplace, at home, or among friends, become stronger and more robust. What we say brings refreshment to those needing a reprieve from the intense heat of a difficult situation. Our words become a ray of light splitting apart the dark, foreboding clouds and offering hope and reassurance at just the right time. Let’s live intentionally today and make every word count for something more than just lip-service.
Respond
Father, thank you for the clear truth that you provide through your Word. Please make our words genuine and intentional as we meet with people today so that we may offer seeds of hope and guidance to those who need it. In your holy name we pray, Amen.
Julie Fitz-gerald
Julie Fitz-Gerald is a freelance journalist, writer and editor based in Uxbridge, Ontario. She has a Bachelor of Journalism degree from Ryerson University and writes about diverse topics from faith to food to clean water. As a regular contributor to Faith Today, as well as numerous trade publications, she is inspired by the stories she gets to tell. Julie’s business has grown over the years to include corporate writing and editing services, ghost writing and book editing.