Proverbs 15:23-24 (ESV)
23 To make an apt answer is a joy to a man,
and a word in season, how good it is!
24 The path of life leads upward for the prudent,
that he may turn away from Sheol beneath.
Solomon continues describing the blessings of wisdom by highlighting another source of joy: speaking words that are true and fitting. Verse 23 declares, “To make an apt answer is a joy to a man.” The Hebrew word translated “answer” is maaneh, referring to a response spoken in reply to a question, concern, criticism, or need. There is great satisfaction in knowing what to say and saying it well. This was precisely what Job’s friends failed to do. Though they spoke many words, they could not provide the wise and appropriate answers Job needed (Job 32:5).
Yet Solomon is not merely praising the ability to say the right thing. He is praising the wisdom to say the right thing at the right time. “A word in season, how good it is!” Wisdom considers not only the content of our words but also their timing. A timely word can bring clarity to confusion, comfort to sorrow, correction to error, and encouragement to the discouraged. Such words benefit both the listener and the speaker. Thoughtful, appropriate, and timely speech often accomplishes far more than lengthy explanations given when a person is not ready or willing to receive them.
Verse 24 shifts from wise speech to wise living. “The path of life leads upward for the prudent.” The Hebrew word translated “prudent” comes from sakal, meaning to act wisely or behave with understanding. The prudent person carefully follows God’s instruction and therefore walks a safer path. Wisdom not only brings blessings in the present life but also directs a person toward eternal life. The path of life ultimately leads upward to the presence of God himself.
In contrast, the path of foolishness leads downward. Solomon says the prudent person turns away from “Sheol beneath.” In the Old Testament, Sheol often refers to the grave or the realm of the dead. Here it represents the end of the path traveled by those who reject God’s wisdom. While the path of life leads upward toward fellowship with God, the path of folly leads toward judgment and destruction. The wise person avoids this tragic end by walking according to God’s truth.
Are your words characterized by wisdom and good timing? Do others leave conversations with you better equipped to follow Christ? We all face questions about marriage, parenting, friendships, work, suffering, and how to faithfully follow Jesus. God often uses wise believers to provide the instruction, encouragement, and correction we need. Ask God to make you such a person. A woman who speaks biblical truth with wisdom and discernment becomes a source of joy to others and helps keep them on the path of life.