Proverbs 25:1-15
The third section of the book begins here. The men of Hezekiah, that king who did all that was good and right and true "in every work . . . and in the law, and in the commandments," doing it with all his heart (2 Chronicles 31:20-21), begin by writing down what concerns kings: their honour (v. 2; a different honour from that of 2 Chronicles 32:27), their heart (v. 3), their throne (v. 6) and what is proper behaviour in their presence (v. 5). Most of these proverbs make use of similes which help us to understand and remember them. Vv. 8-10 urge us to act with wisdom and discretion towards our neighbour for fear of later being put to shame. Vv. 11-15 deal with words. A word fitly spoken is a fruit of divine righteousness (gold) but always associated with mercy (silver). Even if it is a reprimand, it will be of value to the ear which knows how to receive it (v. 12).
V. 13 reminds us that we must be faithful messengers. "Giving out faithfully the message which God has entrusted to us is not only refreshment to those who receive it, but satisfaction for the heart of the One who sends us. Do we think enough about this?"