Proverbs 15:23 (BSB)

A man takes joy in a fitting reply—and how good is a timely word!

From Proverbs 15. Also in the ESV.

Commentary on Proverbs 15:23

• Matthew Henry (Presbyterian), Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary on Proverbs 15:23: Note, 1. We speak wisely when we speak seasonably: The answer of the mouth will be our credit and joy when it is pertinent and to the purpose, and is spoken in due season, when it is needed and will be regarded, and, as we say, hits the joint. Many a good word comes short of doing the good it might have done, for want of being well-timed.
• John Gill (Reformed Baptist), Exposition of the Old and New Testaments on Proverbs 15:23: A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth,.... When his advice is asked, and he gives good and wholesome counsel, and that being taken succeeds; it is a pleasure to a man that he is capable of assisting his friend, and doing him service, or a common good, whether it be in things natural, civil, or religious; when his speech is with salt...
• Jamieson-Fausset-Brown (Reformed), Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible on Proverbs 15:23: Good advice blesses the giver and receiver.
• Geneva Bible Notes (Reformed), Geneva Bible Study Notes on Proverbs 15:23: A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word [spoken] in due season, how good [it is]! (g) If we will that our talk be comfortable, we must wait for time and season.