Transformed by Truth: The Power of a Timely Word - Proverbs 15:23
Introduction: A Word in Season
Words hold immense power. Proverbs 15:23 (NLT) tells us, “Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!” Today, we’re going to explore the power of timely words and how, through God's wisdom, we can speak life into others' lives.
The right words, spoken at the right moment, have the potential to uplift, encourage, and transform. But how do we develop the wisdom and discernment necessary to speak such words?
1. The Power of Words
Proverbs often emphasises the significance of our words. Proverbs 18:21 (NLT) tells us, “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.” Our words can build up or tear down. They can heal or hurt. This power of speech reflects the image of God in us, who spoke creation into existence (Genesis 1:3). The Hebrew word for "word" is dabar, which not only means spoken words but also indicates action. In the biblical sense, words are never empty; they have effect and power.
We’ve all experienced moments when a timely word has lifted us from despair or motivated us to action. This is the kind of power Solomon highlights in Proverbs 15:23. The satisfaction of speaking the right words goes beyond the speaker; it blesses the hearer too. James 3:5 (NLT) says, “In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire.” Whether for good or ill, our words have long-lasting impact.
Pastor Rick Warren once said, “The deepest wounds of life often come from careless words.” However, when we yield our tongues to the Holy Spirit, our speech becomes a fountain of life.
2. Wisdom to Speak Life
To speak words of life, we need wisdom. And the Bible makes it clear that true wisdom comes from God. James 1:5 (NLT) encourages us, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.”
God's wisdom teaches us not just what to say, but when to say it. Ecclesiastes 3:7 (NLT) reminds us, “A time to be quiet and a time to speak.” How often do we speak without considering the impact of our words? How often do we fail to say the right thing because we are focused on ourselves rather than on God’s guidance?
One of the Hebrew words for wisdom is chokmah, which refers to a practical, applied wisdom. It is not about knowing a lot but about living well and acting wisely. This kind of wisdom helps us speak the right words at the right time, just as God does.
Consider Jesus’ words in John 14:26 (NLT), “But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.” The Holy Spirit guides us into truth and teaches us how to apply it. He gives us the wisdom to say a fitting word in due season.
3. Speaking with Love and Grace
While wisdom helps us speak the right words, love ensures we speak with the right heart. Ephesians 4:15 (NLT) says, “Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ.” Love motivates us to seek others' best interests, and grace ensures our words reflect the character of Christ.
In Colossians 4:6 (NLT), Paul instructs believers, “Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” The Greek word used for "gracious" is charis, which can also be translated as “filled with grace.” When we speak with grace, our words reflect the kindness and mercy we have received from God.
Jesus was the perfect example of this. In Luke 4:22 (NLT), we read, “Everyone spoke well of him and was amazed by the gracious words that came from his lips.” Jesus spoke truth, but He did so with love and compassion. His words healed hearts and brought hope.
We too can speak in ways that reflect Christ's heart. Rather than engaging in careless talk or gossip, we can allow the Spirit to shape our speech, ensuring that every word we speak is life-giving.
Christian author Paul David Tripp writes, “Words give life; words bring death. You choose.”
4. Timely Words Bring Transformation
Timely words can bring transformation. Proverbs 12:25 (NLT) says, “Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.” Have you ever experienced a moment where someone's encouraging word changed your perspective? That is the power of a fitting reply.
In John 8, we see a beautiful example of timely words in the story of the woman caught in adultery. The Pharisees were ready to condemn her, but Jesus spoke words of grace and truth. He told the crowd, “Let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” (John 8:7 NLT). His timely words defused the situation and changed the woman’s life forever. Jesus’ words were not only wise but filled with love and grace, bringing hope to a broken heart.
As Charles Spurgeon once said, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.”
5. Application: Speak Life Today
How can we apply these truths? First, let us recognise the power of our words and the impact they have on those around us. As we seek God's wisdom, let's also ask for His guidance in when and how to speak. Let us speak truth, but always with love, ensuring our words are seasoned with grace.
Psalm 19:14 (NLT) can be our prayer: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” As we surrender our words to God, He will use them to bring life and hope to others.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The power of a timely word is extraordinary. It has the capacity to lift someone from the depths of despair or lead them into the presence of God. Today, as followers of Christ, we are called to speak life, to bring hope, and to share the love of God through our words. Let us be intentional in our speech, guided by wisdom, and filled with grace and love.
Invitation to Faith: If you have never experienced the transforming power of God's Word, let today be the day you surrender to Him. Jesus, the Living Word, offers you new life and forgiveness. Come to Him, and let His words of life transform you from the inside out.
