What is the immediate thought that comes to mind when we think about precious jewels … rubies, emeralds, diamonds, sapphires, opals, or pearls? I’m sure the precious jewels that derives from the lips of knowledge is not a thought. True knowledge of the Word is more valuable than riches and it should be appreciated as such. Proverbs 8, speaks of wisdom truth and it says, “Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things. For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing forward or perverse in them. They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge. Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold; for wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.” Isn't that wonderful and rich? When we come to this realization, we will cling to the word of truth with fervency, and be passionate about desiring the wisdom and understanding of it, as well as having an enthusiasm about sharing what we’ve learned with others who have yet to come into that understanding. I am reminded of "how beautiful are the feet of them that publish, speak, announce and make known the way of salvation. (Is 52:7).
The sayings of Proverbs are for our instruction and this particular verse today lets us know that even though gold is valuable, along with various other jewels we have available or can think of, regardless of its worth, they are not more valuable than the teaching and the speaking of sound and complete knowledge.
So, what is knowledge? It is the general awareness or possession of information, facts, ideas, truths, or principles. Knowledge comes through understanding, experience, wisdom, and learning, along with comprehension. What if we thought of knowledge of the Word of God as a precious jewel, or as wonderful rich nuggets for life? Would we spend more time trying to attain it as we do with the precious natural jewels of life? The teaching of sound doctrine allows us to speak with sound knowledge, which are more precious than all we could possibly achieve or reach in this present world. If we could remember that it holds a greater value, we would appreciate it the more and freely and zealously give it to those are in dire and desperate need.
The Word tells us to lean not to our own understanding, so it stands to reason that the Word would also say “the lips of the wise disperse or spread knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so” (Prov 15:7). It's imperative that we give out sound knowledge as though we are giving out priceless diamonds and rubies; knowing that what we are giving out is essential for life. I make it a point on every occasion to give out words of knowledge necessary for life as it relates to the Word of God. I live by John 17:17, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” It is that truth that strengthens, reinforces, increases, provides, encourages, and supports. It's vital that we bless others with knowledge that constitutes or establishes an understanding as a means of achieving holiness by giving them the source to life, grace, comfort, and hope. With knowledge comes understanding, with understanding comes wisdom and with wisdom comes a sustaining of life.
Let’s keep in mind that in our speaking, in our words, as it pertains to the gospel and the things of God, must be of sound doctrine (2 Tim 2:15); so that we can bless others to live life more abundantly and become the givers of precious jewels as well. There is a saying, “give a man a fish and he eats for a day, teach a man to fish and he eats for life.” In other words, give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning (Prov 9:9). A man who increases in learning, will also increase in knowledge.
The lips of knowledge are priceless and the most precious of all. Let’s seek and strive for the lips of knowledge that speak of the most excellent things; giving to the others the precious jewels that are essential for life!
Until the morning, be blessed,
Cynde