That’s the kind of correction I would like to give!

In other words, when I must correct someone, I would like to be as one who adds something of value and beauty to the “target” of my reproof. Like this:

“As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear” (Proverbs 25:12).

But how do I and my reproof become that kind of jewel?

What does it take to attain to such value and beauty?

Well, “unfortunately” it’s a painful, often unwelcome process:

“Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer” (Proverbs 25:4).

😯 I have to experience and submit to the heat of the purifying fire!

Ouch!!

Only then will my reproof and counsel reach the degree of value, beauty, and purity which I crave.

Only then will my words be like this:

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

from Proverbs 25:8