Proverbs 22:20-21 Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge, That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee? 

‘That thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee.’ The second purpose is the readiness to answer. Wisdom is not meant to remain hidden within; it is to be expressed and shared. The one who receives and understands truth becomes equipped to give sound counsel, respond wisely to questions, speak the truth with clarity and confidence, and represent God’s wisdom in real-life situations.

This reflects a movement from learning to assurance, and assurance to communication. Truth received becomes truth lived, and truth lived becomes truth spoken.

This passage reveals a powerful progression: [1] Truth is written and given – accessible and sufficient. [2] Truth is understood with certainty – producing confidence. [3] Truth is spoken to others – bringing guidance and light. It is not enough to possess truth intellectually; it must become part of one’s inner conviction and outward expression.

Proverbs 22:20-21 reminds us that God has already provided excellent truth – rich, complete, and trustworthy; clear purpose – to establish certainty; and practical outcome – to equip us to speak and live wisely.

The believer who embraces these “excellent things” becomes grounded, confident, and useful, able not only to walk in truth, but to set an example therein for others.

Proverbs 22:20-21 Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge, That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee? 

‘Counsels and knowledge’ – These “excellent things” consist of counsels – practical guidance for living rightly, making decisions, and navigating life’s challenges; and knowledge – understanding rooted in truth, not merely information but insight that leads to wisdom.

Together, they form a complete framework for both thinking and living according to God’s design.

‘That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth.’ The first purpose is the certainty of truth. One of the central aims of Scripture is to establish confidence. Truth is not presented as uncertain or shifting, but as firm and reliable. The believer is not left guessing, but is grounded in what is sure and unchanging.

This certainty is affirmed throughout Scripture: 2Timothy 3:16 teaches that all Scripture is God-breathed and profitable. John 5:39 points to the Scriptures as a faithful witness to truth. Thus, the “words of truth” are not human speculation; they carry divine authority and proven reliability.

To be continued…

Proverbs 22:20-21 Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge, That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee? 

The statement is both a reminder and a reassurance. It points back to what has already been given and forward to what it is meant to accomplish in the life of the reader.

‘Have not I written…?’ This rhetorical question emphasises that the reader has already been provided with sufficient instruction. Wisdom is not hidden or withheld; it has been clearly revealed, written down, and made accessible. The responsibility, therefore, is not to seek new truth, but to receive, understand, and apply what has already been given.

‘Excellent things’ The word translated “excellent” comes from the Hebrew shaliysh, which can mean threefold, choice, or of highest quality. This gives the phrase a rich depth of meaning: It may refer to things of great value and distinction, truths that are noble, weighty, and trustworthy. It may also suggest a structured completeness, possibly pointing to a threefold body of wisdom. Some have connected this to the writings of Solomon – namely Song of Solomon, Ecclesiastes, and Proverbs – each contributing to a full picture of life, meaning, and godly wisdom.

Whether understood as excellent in quality or threefold in structure, the emphasis is clear: what has been written is both intentional and sufficient.

To be continued…