Faithful communication brings lasting refreshment to weary hearts.
In this proverb, Solomon (who reigned as king of Israel from about 971 to 931 BC and was the son of King David) paints a vivid picture through the words, “Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest is a faithful messenger to those who send him, For he refreshes the soul of his masters.” (v.13). Harvest season in ancient Israel typically occurred during the dry and hot months, which made cool refreshment especially valued. Snow could sometimes be brought from nearby mountains, such as the higher elevations near Mount Hermon, on Israel’s northern border, providing a welcome relief during the peak of summer. In the same manner, Solomon compares the faithfulness of a messenger to the refreshment that cold snow brings during a scorching harvest. The faithful messenger delivers exactly what his master intends, revitalizing the spirit of those who receive accurate and timely news.
“Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest…” (v.13) suggests something unexpected and soothing in the midst of labor. This portion of the proverb reminds us that God’s word also provides a kind of spiritual relief and encouragement when life feels burdensome. A trustworthy messenger, in the context of this verse, brings an invigorating impact on everyone involved—uplifting the sender, who trusts that his message will be carried accurately, and also blessing the recipient with reliable information. Faithfulness to a task, whether in a job or a ministry, has the potential to enliven hearts and strengthen relationships.
Solomon continues, “…is a faithful messenger to those who send him, For he refreshes the soul of his masters.” (v.13), underscoring the great value of dependable communication. This can relate to the New Testament principle where Jesus, the ultimate faithful Messenger of God, sends His disciples out in the same spirit of faithfulness and truth (John 20:21). A faithful messenger serves as a channel of blessing, just as snow refreshes a parched land, ensuring that the message’s integrity remains intact. This proverb invites believers to consider how we carry the instructions we are given—be it in our families, our workplaces, or our ministry—so that we, too, can help refresh others’ souls rather than add to their burdens.
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Proverbs 25:13 meaning
In this proverb, Solomon (who reigned as king of Israel from about 971 to 931 BC and was the son of King David) paints a vivid picture through the words, “Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest is a faithful messenger to those who send him, For he refreshes the soul of his masters.” (v.13). Harvest season in ancient Israel typically occurred during the dry and hot months, which made cool refreshment especially valued. Snow could sometimes be brought from nearby mountains, such as the higher elevations near Mount Hermon, on Israel’s northern border, providing a welcome relief during the peak of summer. In the same manner, Solomon compares the faithfulness of a messenger to the refreshment that cold snow brings during a scorching harvest. The faithful messenger delivers exactly what his master intends, revitalizing the spirit of those who receive accurate and timely news.
“Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest…” (v.13) suggests something unexpected and soothing in the midst of labor. This portion of the proverb reminds us that God’s word also provides a kind of spiritual relief and encouragement when life feels burdensome. A trustworthy messenger, in the context of this verse, brings an invigorating impact on everyone involved—uplifting the sender, who trusts that his message will be carried accurately, and also blessing the recipient with reliable information. Faithfulness to a task, whether in a job or a ministry, has the potential to enliven hearts and strengthen relationships.
Solomon continues, “…is a faithful messenger to those who send him, For he refreshes the soul of his masters.” (v.13), underscoring the great value of dependable communication. This can relate to the New Testament principle where Jesus, the ultimate faithful Messenger of God, sends His disciples out in the same spirit of faithfulness and truth (John 20:21). A faithful messenger serves as a channel of blessing, just as snow refreshes a parched land, ensuring that the message’s integrity remains intact. This proverb invites believers to consider how we carry the instructions we are given—be it in our families, our workplaces, or our ministry—so that we, too, can help refresh others’ souls rather than add to their burdens.