Proverbs 25
Verse 25:5 is the second part of a clear image:
Take away the wicked from among the king’s advisors,
and his reign will be established with integrity.
The first part is about refining the impurities from silver and how that applies to a government. Not only can this be applied to kings, prime ministers and presidents, but also to moms, dads and individuals. We need to refine the impurities from our system such that nothing corrupts our life. The biggest key is picking your “inner circle” or friends. One friend who wants to try something that is questionable may sway others to follow and start a downward spiral.
Verses 25:11 & 12 uses the precious metal analogy:
11 A well-spoken word at just the right moment
is like golden apples in settings of silver.
12 To an attentive ear, constructive criticism from a truly wise person
is like an earring or jewelry made of fine gold.
Often our words are like jewelry. James talks about the damage words can do and this proverb shows how they can build up and inspire. We need to understand that words are the most powerful thing on the earth. If you think about it words caused all the wars ever and have destroyed relationship daily. When speaking, build up lovingly and try never to tear down a person.
Verse 25:20 reminds me of the use of clichés when people are down:
Like a man who undresses in winter
or a woman who pours vinegar on a wound,
So is anyone who tries to sing happy songs
to a sorrowful heart.
Every cloud has a silver lining. Time heals all wounds. God will never give you more than you can handle. Really?? When one is down that’s the last thing they need to hear, it only makes us feel better since we really can’t help other than just being there.
Verses 25:21 & 22 actually takes the last proverb to an extreme:
21 If your enemy is hungry, give him something to eat;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink,
22 For your kind treatment will be like heaping hot coals on his head,
it may cause a change in heart,
and the Eternal will repay you.
This is a classic analogy, where someone may not want to hear what you have to say you actions are what irritate. Instead of fighting, try to win you enemy over.