“Whoever gives thought to the word[a] will discover good and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord. The wise of heart is called discerning, and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness. Good sense is a fountain of life to him who has it, but the instruction of fools is folly. The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious and adds persuasiveness to his lips. Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” Proverbs 16 20-26(ESV).
“A worthless man plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire. A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends.” Proverbs 16:27-28(ESV).
As I reflect on the wisdom found in Scripture, particularly in Proverbs, I’ve been reminded just how impactful our words can be. Verses 20 through 24 and 28 speak volumes about the significance of our speech and encourage us to choose our words wisely.
Verse 20 tells us that those who carefully consider their words will uncover goodness. This is a reminder that taking the time to think before we speak can lead to blessings, not just for ourselves but also for others. When we speak from a place of faith and trust in the Lord, we become more discerning, as stated in verse 21: “The wise of heart is called discerning, and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness.” Our words have the power to persuade and uplift when they spring from wisdom.
What resonates most with me is verse 24, which beautifully illustrates the impact of gracious words: “Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” Imagine that! Our words can be as sweet and healing as honey, nourishing the souls and hearts of those around us. However, just like the honeycomb, this kind of sweetness requires time and effort to cultivate. It’s a process that requires us to be continually filled with God’s wisdom.
Looking back on my teenage years, I realize I was anything but gracious with my words. Quick to defend and quicker still to react, I often found myself in conflict. My father once expressed his frustration with a timeless truth: “Elizabeth, my child, you will catch more flies with honey than vinegar.” This profound yet straightforward saying has stuck with me, reminding me that kindness can yield far better results than harshness. I recall a specific incident from my high school days when my harsh words led to a rift with a close friend. It was a painful lesson, but it taught me the power of gracious speech.
While I’ve improved on the art of gracious speech, I still find myself stumbling. However, each time I slip up, I hear that wise advice echo in my heart. It’s another powerful reminder that God is continually working in me, guiding my words, one prayer at a time.
What a gift it is to realize that our words can be instruments of healing and support. In Exodus 4:12, God promised Moses, “Now go, and I, even I, will be with your mouth and teach you what you are to say.” This assurance is just as relevant for us today. When we pause to invite God into our conversations through prayer, we open ourselves up to being vessels of encouragement for those around us. Prayer is not just a spiritual practice but a powerful mechanism that can guide our speech and fill our hearts with God’s wisdom.
In our hurried lives, it’s essential to remember to pause, look, and listen to those who may be hurting. This isn’t just about speaking; it’s about taking the time to pray for wisdom and discernment. It’s about being deeply sensitive to the feelings of others, especially those closest to us. We must cultivate the patience and kindness that come from the Holy Spirit to truly hear others. During these moments, when our words are few, they often hold the most value.
Let’s commit to being more intentional with our words, striving to cultivate a nurturing environment where kindness and understanding flourish. We all can make a difference with our speech if we approach conversations with grace and thoughtfulness. By consistently seeking God’s guidance and wisdom, we can become better communicators and more compassionate listeners. Each interaction holds the potential for healing, encouragement, and building deeper connections. May our words reflect the love and kindness we receive from God, allowing us to be instruments of peace in a world that often feels chaotic. Let’s embrace the challenge of speaking words that uplift and inspire, knowing that even the smallest act of kindness can have a tremendous impact. Together, let’s create a culture of graciousness in our relationships, allowing our speech to be a source of joy and strength for ourselves and others.
Let’s Pray:
Dear Lord, Thank You for the gift of words and their potential to uplift and heal. Grant us wisdom in our speech, that our words may reflect Your love and grace. Help us to be patient, kind, and attentive to the needs of others. May we be a source of encouragement and support in every interaction. Guide our hearts to speak with humility and compassion and fill us with the courage to share Your truth. Holy Spirit, please let our words inspire and bring joy to those around me. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
