“There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.” — Proverbs 20:15
“That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:6
Solomon teaches that while gold and rubies are valuable, truthful, knowledgeable speech is far more precious. Paul warns that when a man defrauds — deceives, manipulates, or takes advantage of another — God Himself becomes the avenger.
Right words protect others — wrong words defraud others.
Honest lips = precious jewel.
Deceitful lips = divine judgment.
Illustration #1 — Jacob Defrauding Esau (Genesis 27)
Jacob, with subtlety and deception, took Esau’s blessing. He used deceptive words. He defrauded his brother. It brought division, sorrow, and long-term consequences. Though Jacob gained the blessing, the method brought pain into the family. Words used wrongly can rob others — and leave wounds that last for years.
Illustration #2 — Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8:18–23)
Simon tried to buy the power of God. He approached spiritual things with a corrupt motive. He sought to gain advantage improperly. Peter rebuked him sharply: “Thy heart is not right in the sight of God.” He attempted to manipulate and profit — crossing the line Paul warned about.
We must guard how we deal with others:
- In speech — No exaggeration, no manipulation.
- In business — No shortcuts, no hidden motives.
- In ministry — No using people for gain.
God sees when someone is taken advantage of, even subtly. A man may gain gold through deception — but lose the favor of God.
Speak truth. Deal honestly. Value integrity. Because the lips of knowledge are worth more than riches — and God defends those who are wronged.