Some Thoughts on Talking and Trusting

SOME THOUGHTS ON TALKING AND TRUSTING

PROVERBS 25:11-20

INTRODUCTION: “A word to the wise ain’t necessary. It’s the stupid who need advice.” (Will Rogers). Someone once said, “Never explain. Your friends don’t need it. Your enemies won’t believe it.” There are two issues before us here.

I. Take Heed How You Talk (v. 11-15)

This has to do with speech, talk, conversation and words. There are some whose talk is:

A. Fit (v.11): He makes a point by drawing a picture. This is not about colored fruit but artwork. Some have suggested this has to do with an expensive piece of jewelry. “Aptly” = the right word at the right time.

B. Firm (v.12): “Wise man’s rebuke”. “Listening ear”. Rebukes are never easy to take. “Wise man” = one sure to be on target. He speaks aptly. Derek Kidner said, “A rebuke is one of the few things more blessed to receive than give.” “A poor listener never heard a good sermon.” See Gal. 2:11-14; Prov. 26:4.

C. Faithful (v.13): Some talk refreshingly. The picture here is that of one who would bring snow down from the mountain on a sweltering day.

D. False (v.14): Here is a person whose profession is empty. He pretends to be someone he isn’t. He makes claims he can’t back up. He promises what he can’t keep. He may bluff for awhile but eventually the old windbag will be exposed. Here is a person who breaks promises. He raises expectations he can’t keep. He only brings disappointments and frustration.

E. Forceful (v.15): “Patience” = quiet, composed thoughtful behavior. You won’t get far being bossy. “Gentle” = opposed to a sharp, coarse tongue which increases the resistance which it seeks to overcome. Gentle words can make a powerful impression. You can do more with a smile than a scowl. A soft tongue is more persuasive than threats and anger. This is God’s style. See Rev. 3:20.

II. Take Heed Who You Trust (v. 16-20)

There are some people you just need to avoid. Why? Because you can’t trust them! Who are they? Watch out for the:

A. Intemperate (v.16): This is the self-indulgent, excessive and hoggish person. This is a person given to extremes. Too much of a good thing can be too much!

B. Intruder (v.17): You can overstay your welcome! Just as one can get sick of honey when he/she eats too much, even so your friends can get tired of you when you are around too much. This is not a disciplined person. A little bit of this person goes a long way. Here’s a person who doesn’t know where to draw the line.

C. Ill-Willed (v.18):This is a deadly, deceitful person. The three weapons mentioned are all capable of dealing a deadly blow.

D. Insincere (v.19): “Tooth” = can’t chew. “Lame” = foot that slips. Both limit your activity. The picture is that of a gnawing, nagging, crippling pain. Reliance on the unreliable can be as painful. “Unfaithful” = fickle. Don’t trust a double-crosser.

E. Insensitive (v.20): This is inappropriate behavior. Here is ill-advised conduct. “Garment” = heartless creditor. “Vinegar” = destroys its usefulness. Grief has its place. Only a fool sings songs to a broken heart. All are wrong.

CONCLUSION: Take heed how you talk and who you trust!