a fit, winsome word

"Wisdom is proved, not by the quantum of knowledge, but by its right application. Observe 'the Spirit of knowledge resting upon our Divine Master.' (Is xi.2) In condescending to the ignorance of the people; in commanding their respect; in silencing the gainsayers; in alluring sinners to himself - how did his wise tongue use knowledge aright! Thus did his great Apostle give to all the same knowledge, but wisely - not the same form or gradation. (I Cor. iii.2.) Instead of exasperating his Heathen congregation by an open protest, he supplied their acknowledged defect, by bringing before them the true God, 'whom they were ignorantly worshipping.' (Acts, xvii.23.) He pointed an arrow to Agrippa's conscience, by the kindly admission of his candour and intelligence. (Ib. xxvi.27-29.) This right use of knowledge distinguishes the 'workman approved of God, and that needeth not to be ashamed.' (2Tim. ii.15.) The want of it often gives out truth so loosely and unsuitably, as to open, rather than to shut, the mouth of the gainsayer; rather to bring discredit upon the truth, than conviction to the adversary. Specially will the tongue of the wise direct a right application of knowledge to those, who have newly entered the path of God May we not sometimes in our present stature, forget our former feeble infancy? If now we 'strike our roots as Lebanon,' was it not once with us only 'the least of all seeds?' (Hos. xiv.5. Matt. xiii.32.) Let our considerate instruction pluck the thorn out of their tender feet, 'lest that which is lamed be turned out of the way; but rather let it be healed,' (Heb. xii.13.)"

Bridges on Proverbs 15:2