Notice that the writer mentions earthly wealth first. All of us desire possessions of value. We want silver, gold, diamonds, stocks and bonds. Walking in wisdom and obedience to the Word of God will bring the riches of the earth to the believer.
But this verse teaches that we can possess a form of wealth that far exceeds the riches of the earth.
Lips speak words every day. Each day we are bombarded with a plethora of words by family, friends, co-workers, radio, televison and by other forms of media. In this culture it is likely that you often go through a day, and you hear nothing other than idle chatter. Worse than that we are exposed to complaints, criticism and other forms of negativity.
What we say is of the utmost importance. Proverbs 18:21 reveals the truth that the tongue has the power of life and death. Jesus said that we are condemned by our words or justified by our words. The spirit of faith is, I believe, therefore I speak. Doubt and fear operate in the same manner as faith. You believe it and you speak it. The operation of faith brings good things. The operation of fear and doubt brings bad things.
What do you want to speak with your lips? Do you want to speak death, doubt and fear? Or would you rather speak knowledge, faith and blessing?
So what do we need to do in order to have lips that are like a rare jewel?
First of all, stop the negative talk. People will begin to notice you when you stop whining and complaining. Refuse to complain. Refuse to speak words that are dominated by doubt and fear.
Secondly, fill your mind and heart with the knowledge of God found in the Word of God. Never allow a day to pass without time invested in learning more of the knowledge of God. You can't speak the knowledge of God, if you don't know the Word of God.
Thirdly, expect the Holy Spirit to open doors of opportunity for you to speak the knowledge of God. When the door opens, boldly speak that word. You could speak a word that may save a marriage. You could speak a word that will help bring the light of the glory of God to someone in the throes of depression or discouragement. You could speak a word that will encourage a weary Christian to continue in the faith and not turn back.
Every day may not afford the opportunity to speak to someone in despair. But every day we are commanded to encourage our fellow believers. Hebrews 3:13(a) states, But encourage one another daily, as long as it called today.
Every believer needs encouragement. Every day you have the opportunity to encourage another believer. Make a phone call! Write a note or an e-mail! Stop by and encourage someone who is lonely!
The possibilites are endless and the reward is of greater value than a rare jewel, if you will commit your lips to speak the knowledge of God.
Today make your lips like a rare jewel filled with the knowledge of God.
Wayne L. Williams
wayne@fotwm.org