Proverbs 24:23–27 23These things also belong to the wise. It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment. 24He that saith unto the wicked, Thou art righteous; Him shall the people curse, nations shall abhor him: 25But to them that rebuke him shall be delight, And a good blessing shall come upon them. 26Every man shall kiss his lips That giveth a right answer. 27Prepare thy work without, And make it fit for thyself in the field; And afterwards build thine house.
During my readings today one verse grabbed my attention and demanded some explanation.
Proverbs 24:26 Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer.
My initial interpretation of this verse was that telling the truth would result in a kiss on the lips from every man.
Now, I’m going to let you in on a little secret, the Bald Believer has no interest in a kiss from a hairy lipped man!
Honestly, I don’t know how you women do it, kissing a man mouth. On behalf of husbands everywhere, I say God bless you ladies for your grace.
If telling the truth leads to mouth kisses from men, then I’ll just go into politics where no one expects me to tell the truth.
Of course, that isn’t what this proverb means! Thank ya Lord!
Could “every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer” be figurative?
Could this verse teach that eventually an honest answer will be appreciated? I am not sure, as a preacher of the gospel I can tell you that not everyone appreciates honesty. I often feel that many come to church subconsciously saying, “lie to me preacher, lie to me”. Rather than hearing right, some seek only confirmation and approval for their wrongs.
I refuse to do that! I will not confirm corruption and put a stamp of approval upon sin.
I want to be the person that tells folks the facts but flavoring them with grace the way God’s Word commands.
Colossians 4:6 Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
In ministry, I have had several mad men and women leave angry only to return and thank me for telling them what they needed to hear and express regret for rejecting the warnings. Perhaps it could be said that they returned with a figurative kiss.
Could it be that the kisser is the speaker of right words in this verse?
Notice how a few words were in italics which shows the honesty of the translators in saying that these were added for translation purposes and were not in the original language.
Proverbs 24:26 Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer.
Could the Proverb be telling us that speaking right words is a form of affection comparable to a kiss on the lips?
Is God’s Word telling us that if you really love someone then you should express that with the truth?
I have always believed that if you love someone then you should tell them what they need to hear and that holding back useful words is a form of hatred.
So, what does this verse say to us today?
Show your love with truth. Don’t withhold needed information.
Welcome words that correct you and don’t just seek approval and confirmation for your pre-chosen path.
When someone cares enough to tell you the truth it is like a kiss on the lips only better, and preferrable when it is coming from a dude. If you're a fella then just the facts, please!
Bald believer out!
Readings for 10/7/20