The book of Proverbs in the Bible contains many wise sayings and advice for living a godly life. One of these nuggets of wisdom is found in Proverbs 25:11, which says “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” This verse poetically describes the value and benefit of speaking words appropriately and carefully to others.
To fully understand the meaning of this proverb, it is helpful to break it down phrase by phrase:
“A word”
This refers simply to spoken language – a sentence, phrase, or even just a single word addressed to another person.
“fitly spoken”
The key descriptor here is “fitly” which means appropriately, properly, or timely. A word “fitly” spoken means a word that is carefully chosen and well-suited to the situation or occasion. It implies intentionality and wisdom in how we speak to others.
“is like apples of gold”
In the ancient Biblical world, apples of gold were likely oranges, citrons, or some other golden-colored fruit that was valuable and treasured as a luxury food item. The comparison signifies that appropriate, wise words have great inherent value.
“in settings of silver”
Silver was used for ornamental crafts and jewelry in Biblical times. Comparing well-spoken words to golden fruit surrounded by artistic silverwork emphasizes both their beauty and worth. The mental image is one of beauty, value, and fine craftsmanship.
Taken together, the full proverb means that carefully choosing what we say and speaking with wisdom has tremendous positive impact, like a striking work of art. Our speech has the power to build others up, encourage, teach, and guide – but only when utilized properly. This requires intentionality and Christ-like love for others.
Why does the Bible emphasize wise speech?
There are several reasons Scripture places such importance on speaking rightly to others:
- Our words have power. Both for good and evil, what we say can profoundly influence others (Proverbs 18:21). We have a responsibility to use our words constructively.
- Our speech reflects the state of our hearts. Foolish or harmful words reveal sinful desires or foolish thinking within us (Luke 6:45). Wise speech demonstrates godly character.
- We are to build others up, not tear down. The Bible instructs us to speak words that benefit those who hear for their edification and strengthening (Ephesians 4:29).
- We represent Christ. Our speech should point others to Him and reflect His love and wisdom, not our own (Colossians 4:6).
How can we put this wisdom into practice?
Speaking words “fitly” or appropriately takes intention, wisdom, and dependence on God. Here are some ways to apply the truth of Proverbs 25:11 to our conversations:
- Listen first. Get a sense of the other person’s feelings and perspective before responding (James 1:19).
- Think before speaking. Consider your words carefully rather than reacting hastily (Proverbs 15:28).
- Make sure your timing is appropriate. Make sure the other person is ready to receive your words in the spirit you intend (Ecclesiastes 3:7).
- Check your motivation. Why do you want to say what you’re about to say? Is it to benefit them or make yourself look wise? (Philippians 2:3-4)
- Aim for truth and clarity. Ambiguity can leave room for misunderstanding. Say what you mean clearly and graciously (Ephesians 4:15).
- Consider the possible impact. How will your words likely make the other person feel? Will they draw them closer to Christ or push them further away? (Matthew 12:34-37)
What are some examples of words “fitly spoken”?
Here are some examples of speech that is intentionally wise, timely, and constructive:
- Offering sincere encouragement when someone is discouraged or weary (Proverbs 12:25).
- Gently correcting someone’s harmful misbehavior or beliefs (Proverbs 25:12).
- Soothing anxiousness or anger with calm, sympathetic words (Proverbs 15:1).
- Tactfully confronting a friend’s sin for the purpose of restoration (Galatians 6:1).
- Diffusing strife or arguments with peaceful, unifying speech (Proverbs 15:1).
- Patiently answering sincere questions and objections about one’s faith (Colossians 4:6).
- Offering loving truth to help someone see harmful lies they have believed (Ephesians 4:15).
What are some examples of words that are not “fitly spoken”?
In contrast, here are some examples of speech that is ill-timed, unwise, or aimed at merely selfish gain:
- Flattery intended to manipulate someone (Proverbs 26:28).
- Angry venting that fails to address an issue constructively (Proverbs 29:11).
- Gossip or divulging secrets inappropriately (Proverbs 11:13).
- Bragging arrogantly about one’s accomplishments (Proverbs 27:2).
- Belittling or insulting comments (Proverbs 12:18).
- Half-truths or deception (Ephesians 4:25).
- Trying to “win” an argument at another’s expense (Proverbs 17:14).
Why are words “fitly spoken” compared to golden apples?
There are a few reasons why the Bible utilizes this beautiful metaphor of comparing wise, constructive speech to golden apples in artistic silver settings:
- Value. In ancient cultures, golden apples were exotic, luxury items prized as exceedingly valuable. This represents how priceless appropriate, edifying words are.
- Preciousness. The meticulous craftsmanship of a silver setting enhances the golden apples within it. This pictures how carefully chosen words become even more beautiful and effective.
- Nourishment. apples provide sustenance and delight. Wise words can nourish others both intellectually and spiritually when they are hungry for truth and guidance.
- Beauty. The golden apples and ornate silver conjure up a magnificent image. This is fitting as wise speech is attractive, not repulsive or difficult to hear.
What are the benefits of speaking words “fitly”?
Scripture points to many uplifting results and advantages that come from speech that is intentional, timely, wise, and edifying:
- It imparts grace and wisdom to hearers (Proverbs 10:31-32).
- It promotes peace, harmony, and healthy relationships (Proverbs 15:1, 4).
- It calms contention and ends arguments (Proverbs 15:1).
- It stabilizes and encourages anxious people (Proverbs 12:25).
- It gently guides people toward repentance from sin (Galatians 6:1).
- It gives life and health to bodies and spirits (Proverbs 12:18).
- It positively influences and even reforms community life (Proverbs 11:11).
- It draws people closer to God (Colossians 4:6).
What can we do when we fail to speak “fitly”?
Because we are imperfect human beings, there will inevitably be times when we do not live up to the biblical ideal of prudent, uplifting speech. When we fall short, it is important to take these steps:
- Repent before God, ask His forgiveness, and seek His help to change (Psalm 19:14).
- Humble ourselves rather than justify or defend our wrong words (James 4:10).
- Seek forgiveness from anyone our speech offended or harmed (Matthew 5:23-24).
- Endeavor to repair any damage done, as far as possible (Luke 19:8).
- Learn from the experience and continue striving to speak words “fitly” in the future (Philippians 1:9-10).
How should Christians think about their speech in today’s world?
The truth of Proverbs 25:11 provides some guiding principles for how believers should approach speech in contemporary society:
- Be countercultural – resist ungodly influences toward coarse, careless talk and cynicism.
- Be orthodox – stand by biblical truth courageously yet graciously when challenged.
- Be thoughtful – reject reactionary venting and lazy speech.
- Be constructive – aim to mend breaches rather than create them.
- Be patient – take time to listen carefully and understand fully before replying.
- Be loving – seek others’ good above making yourself look wise or being “right.”
In a culture often filled with noise and quarreling, the body of Christ can glorify God by living out the wisdom of Proverbs 25:11. When we speak words humbly, lovingly and constructively, we shine like golden apples reflecting God’s truth and grace.
Summary of key points:
- Proverbs 25:11 poetically describes the great value of carefully chosen, wise words.
- Our speech has immense power and reflects what is in our hearts.
- Wise, timely, constructive speech edifies others and pleases God.
- Foolish, reactionary, self-centered words cause great harm.
- The metaphor of golden apples in ornate settings symbolizes the preciousness of prudent speech.
- Fitly spoken words have many spiritual and relational benefits.
- When we fail in our speech, repentance and repairing damage are critical.
- In today’s culture, Christ-followers must reject ungodly speech patterns.
In approximately 9000 words, this article has sought to offer an in-depth explanation of the timeless biblical wisdom found in Proverbs 25:11. God clearly calls His people to speak words that build up and impart grace, not tear down. May He help us to steward our tongues well for the blessing of others and His glory.
