Recently, I went to a store that I very rarely go to, known for selling somewhat unique and maybe slightly unusual products. As I walked the aisles, I happened upon chunks of honeycomb. Honey, of course, is readily available at many grocery stores, but I was attracted to the soft golden glow of the honeycomb under the lights, so I looked at one of the boxes. The label says “100% edible.” I did a quick search, and it supposedly has many nutritional and health benefits.
Curiously, I looked for more information when I got home. As I was searching, Proverbs 16:24 popped up: “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Wow. I thought about a couple of days ago when I said some ungracious and unkind words. Of course, I had already confessed to God, apologized to the person, received forgiveness, and have been reconciled, but I know that my words were neither sweet nor healing, so I further reflected upon the power of words.
The Bible teaches us that a word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver. Moreover, words can turn away wrath, bring joy and healing, give life and grace, and build up others. But words can also stir up anger, pierce others like swords, crush people’s spirits, and manifest foolishness. Death and life are in the power of the tongue.
I recalled Jesus Christ’s words: “for the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” (Proverbs 25:11) I looked deeper within me and conversed honestly with God. His presence strengthened me. His Sprit comforted me. His words — sweeter than honey from the honeycomb — refreshed my soul. I prayed like David: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14)