Proverbs 25:11 - Meaning and Application

Solomon here shows how much it becomes a person to speak at the right time and in the right way. A word that runs smoothly, well placed and well timed, is a good word. This includes instruction, advice, or comfort given in a fitting way, suited to the person’s need and to the speaker’s own character.

Such a word is like golden apples in a silver setting, a beautiful ornament on a table. It was some well-known piece of table decoration in Solomon’s day. Just as that would please the eye, so a fitting word pleases the ear.

This is especially true when someone gives a rebuke, that is, a gentle correction, with wisdom and care, so that it is easier to accept. When a wise person gives such a rebuke, and the other person listens well, it is like a gold earring or a fine ornament. Both are honored, the one who gives the correction because it was done so wisely, and the one who receives it because he took it patiently and used it well.

Others will respect both of them, and each will find satisfaction in the other. The one who gave the rebuke is glad it had the right effect. The one who received it should be thankful for it, because it was an act of kindness. We often say that something is well given when it is well received, though it does not always follow that a well-given word will be well received. It would be good if a wise reprover always found an obedient ear, but often that is not the case.