What does Proverbs 23:16 mean?

Solomon's proverbs often point out the value of godly wisdom and the need to pass it along to one's children (Proverbs 1:1–7; 3:1–5; 13:1; 19:18; 22:6). The prior verse noted that a parent, or a teacher, will be glad to see their children making effective use of their advice. It is possible for a person to know what is right, and not do it. A person might know what is right, and do what is right, but not speak up for godliness and goodness. Here, Solomon points to a child who "[speaks] what is right" as a crowning achievement.

Many Old Testament believers lived among morally corrupt people, but they spoke truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). Noah was faithful to the Lord in a time when "the wickedness of man was great in the earth" and "every intention of the thoughts of [humanity] was only evil continually" (Genesis 6:5). However, Noah spoke what was right. The apostle Peter describes him as "a herald of righteousness" (2 Peter 2:5). New Testament believers are called ambassadors for Christ entrusted with the message of reconciliation. As such, believers ought to speak what is right by imploring unbelievers to be reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:18–20). When a son speaks as an ambassador of Christ, he brings immense joy to his father.