The Daily Devotional
Monday, July 28, 2025
A Word at the Right Time
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver. (Proverbs 25:11)
Introduction
Encouragement is one of the most life-giving gifts we can offer. In Proverbs 25:11, Scripture paints a picture of words that are not only timely but also beautiful and lasting—like golden fruit in a silver frame. When we speak with grace, wisdom, and compassion, our words become more than conversation—they become ministry. Today’s devotional invites you to reflect on how your daily words can strengthen the weary and uplift the faithful.
Reflection
Each morning, I welcome Bible college students from around the world into their next class. Some are just beginning—feeling uncertain or overwhelmed. Others are working through complex material while juggling jobs, families, and ministry. I offer words of encouragement, guidance in their studies, and heartfelt congratulations when they complete a course.
It might seem like a small thing—a message here, a comment there—but I’ve learned that even a single word of encouragement can carry great weight. I’ve had students reply with gratitude, saying things like, “Your message helped me keep going,” or “I felt seen and supported today.”
In those moments, I see Proverbs 25:11 come alive. A word spoken with love and at the right time becomes more than just helpful—it becomes sacred. God uses it to affirm, to strengthen, and to guide. Encouragement, I’ve come to realize, is ministry. It’s one of the quietest, yet most powerful ways to reflect the heart of Christ.
Application
Is there someone in your life who could use a timely word today? Perhaps a friend going through a rough patch, a coworker under pressure, or someone in your church or neighborhood quietly doing their best. Offer them a message of encouragement—a kind word, a note, a call.
Make it a practice: Ask God each morning to place someone on your heart who needs lifting up. Then follow through with a word fitly spoken. You may never fully know how much it means—but God does.
Conclusion
Encouragement isn’t always grand or public, but it is always powerful. In a world full of noise and criticism, your voice can bring calm, strength, and hope. Your words—when offered with love and faith—can become like apples of gold, beautifully placed in the silver setting of someone’s soul. Speak them faithfully.
Prayer
Gracious Lord, thank You for the power of words spoken in love. Help me today to notice those who need a kind word, a reminder of their worth, or an assurance that they’re not alone. Make me mindful of how my words reflect Your heart. May I never underestimate the strength of encouragement or the sacredness of small acts. Use my voice to lift, bless, and point others back to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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