Apt Words – Proverbs 15:23

I like doing crossword puzzles.  There is a site, the-crossword-solver.com, that tells you clues you might see for particular words (of course I would never use it!).  Here is what they have as possible clues you would find in a crossword puzzle for the word “apt”: On target, well put, perceptive, suitable to the occasion, mentally acute, dead-on, especially suited, unusually smart, suitable for the occasion.

To make an apt answer is a joy to a man,

and a word in season, how good it is! (Proverbs 15:23, ESV)

I remember many years ago as a teen being very discouraged and angry with my pastor because of the way he seemed to exaggerate when preaching (I’m a purist, you know), and I even went to the elders about it (not the pastor directly, of course).  I was pretty hot and bothered and our youth pastor caught wind of it.  He called me and talked to me about my responsibility to submit to my authorities.  It was a timely statement and one that really helped calm me down and look at the bigger perspective.  He wasn’t saying I could never disagree with or challenge the pastor, but I needed to do it respectfully and with no expectation that my word must be obeyed.  I was a man under authority.

I have had many people speak many apt answers and words in season since then, and how good it is.  It has helped me immensely along my way in following the Lord.  Perhaps you can recall those whose apt words have helped you.  And perhaps you have become someone who can also give the timely answer.  May your tribe increase.