DECEMBER 2005

“A CARVED WORK”

Proverbs 25:11 “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.”

    Solomon was relating to us the importance and grandeur of well verbalized thought.  In one brief, but beautifully descriptive scripture, he totally reversed the idea that “one picture is worth a thousand words.” A sentence of few words can, at times, paint a more vivid and thought-provoking picture than a thousand strokes of the artist’s brush.

    The reference used by Solomon “apples of gold in pictures of silver” is translated from the Hebrew: “a carved work.” In the space of only 13 English words, he states, in all its resplendent glory what an artist would take days, weeks, months, or even years to design and form.  The
carvings of skilled craftsmen require many painstaking hours and hand-numbing determination to complete.  The end result is a masterpiece of human ability and consistent effort.  Some pay hundreds, even thousands of dollars for such appealing, eye-pleasing examples of hand-carved excellence.

    An appropriate word ministered at the right time, tactfully applied, can easily become an adored and time-honored centerpiece on the pedestal of a man’s heart.  It becomes a point of reference for use in future trouble or times or times of personal trial.  It evolves into a vital conversation piece eagerly removed from its strategic place and handed thoughtfully, carefully to any who may be perceived to appreciate its splendor.  Like the intricately detailed, finely chiseled form of the statue of David by Michelangelo, fitly spoken words become invaluable artworks of immense personal importance.

    Blessed is the man whose words become a priceless treasure to his brother this Christmas.  May God give us more of them who generously impart to one another verbal masterpieces of invaluable sculpture.

Proverbs 18:21    “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.”

H. L. Sheppard
Pastor