Words and Sterling Silver

O. T. #1456  "Words and Sterling Silver"
June 3, 2019
Proverbs 10-Part 2
The words of the godly are like sterling silver; the heart of the fool is worthless.  Proverbs 10:20


LET IT GLOW

Do you have any sterling silver? We received a beautiful platter for our wedding which looked like sterling silver, but over the years, the tarnish revealed what it was made of-too many alloys to be pure silver. (Since the giver was a relative, I would not have told her and hurt her feelings. It was my little secret.) Folks, our words can be like pure sterling silver or mixed with too much impurities.

Today we will be looking at verses 15-22. We read of 7 proverbs which instruct us on the proper use of wealth. Solomon shows us that it is a mistake to think rich people are happy and poor people are undone and worthless. (verse 15) Both types of people can be content, have integrity, and live by faith. We must be careful that our riches does not take us away from the Lord. Remember, He hates pride, which was first on the list we covered recently. Let's take a look at the rich people and learn from Solomon, who was a rich man.

Matthew Henry's Commentary and the New Living Translation give us some insight:

1. The wealth of the rich is their fortress. (verse 15a) It protects them from evil ways.
2. The earnings of the godly enhance their lives. (verse 16a NLT) Their earnings is from a honest livelihood and maintains his family. This man's labor enables him to do for others. Sounds like he sows to the Spirit, involved in Kingdom work.
3. People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life. (verse 17a) When instruction is heeded, their life is enhanced and others as well, which leads eventually to eternal life in heaven.
4. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut, for too much talk leads to sin. (verse 19) It is good to keep a bridle on our mouth and refrain our lips. This is evidence of wisdom.
5. The words of the godly are like sterling silver. (verse 20a) Sterling silver contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% of other metals, usually copper, by weight. That is because pure silver is soft and needs the hardness and strength of an alloy. Did you know that; I didn't. Good men are good for something; bad men are good for nothing. The words of the godly men are pure, can be relied upon, and are just.
6. The words of the godly encourage many. (verse 21a) Their words are full of the Word of God, which is the bread of life and feed us spiritually giving comfort and wisdom.
7. The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich and He adds no sorrow with it. The love and grace of God is a blessing which leads to a person serving God with joy and gladness of heart. Thus, we are a wealthy person, in my opinion.

Wow! That is a lot to take in, huh? So if we have extra money, are we using it for ourselves selfishly, or are we helping others? Are we using it in Kingdom work? Are we disciplined enough to not allow our money to lead us down a path of sin, but righteousness? What are we talking about? Is it how to make more money or the Lord's work and His blessings on our life? Is knowing Jesus resulting in joy in our life?

LET IT GROW

What is left to be said here? Solomon said it, a wise man. Our challenge today is to let our words be as pure as sterling silver.

LET IT GO

Watch my mouth.
May my life be rich in faith, love, and Kingdom work.