Proverbs 26:23-26 Fervency

Like a coating of silver dross on earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart. Enemies disguise themselves with their lips, but in their hearts they harbour deceit. Though their speech is charming, do not believe them, for seven abominations fill their hearts. Their malice may be concealed by deception, but their wickedness will be exposed in the assembly.
It is generally agreed that preachers ought to speak fervently. There ought to be a zeal and an ardour when they preach the Word. That is most appropriate. One danger for those who know this and yet lack fervour is to work it up, to pretend that there is more enthusiasm than there is. This is the mark of an enemy not a friend. It is a deceitful and wicked way to proceed.

You have heard it said, perhaps, "strike while the iron is hot not to make the iron hot". Practically, if you are not striking oil it is perhaps best to quit boring.

Here in Proverbs 26:23 the picture is of earthenware that has been glazed with silver dross. It can look very pleasant but no-one is fooled. They are not drinking from a silver cup. Few people will think a preacher who works himself up is really full of spiritual fervour. They will see through him as Lonnie Donegan made clear in 1957 singing an old American folk song that includes this verse

Preacher in the pulpit roars with all his might

Sings "Glory Hallelujah" puts the folks all in a fright.

Now you might think he's Satan that's comin' down the aisle

But it's only our poor preacher, boys, it's puttin' on his style.

Merely putting on the style won't save sinners or comfort saints. What is needed is genuine, heartfelt, God given fervour. Away with disguise, with mere charm. Expect to be found out if you merely pretend.