September 25, 2024
Humility -- Part 3
Proverbs 25:11-12
09/25/2024
11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a
setting of silver.
12 Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise
reprover to a listening ear. (ESV)
Yesterday we heard Solomon's words about quickly taking
offense, about quickly making an issue public to the harm of our
neighbor and ourselves. Today he continues with the wisdom to be
open to instruction and learning.
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting
of silver. Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is
a wise reprover to a listening ear.
There was only one perfect Man, and the religious leaders of
His day caused Him to be nailed to a cross. You and I, on the
other hand, can and do make mistakes, have misunderstandings, and
always need to learn.
How do we handle criticism? Do we turn away, stop our ears,
and attack the one who is trying to improve us? Or do we
respectfully listen, ponder the words, and seek to remove any
dissension which our actions may have caused? As the ones
offering criticism, do we go on the attack with accusations, or
do we discuss the situation calmly and without suggesting an evil
intent behind the actions?
Solomon would have us open to learning, to hearing another
point of view, and responding with thanks. As we consider the
criticism, we may disagree, we may not change our actions, but we
will have gained an insight to the impact of our words. We may
determine that we have not truly reflected God's love, thus we
may confess our sin and receive forgiveness.
During this election season, especially, we need to realize
that Jesus Christ was willing to die for all people, that all are
precious in His sight. Therefore, we need to speak and act with
respect, showing love to our neighbor. May our Lord grant us the
wisdom to treat each person, even those with whom we may not
agree, with love and honor. Amen.