Gracious Words

Proverbs 16:23-24

The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent,
    and their lips promote instruction.
Gracious words are a honeycomb,
    sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

The purple powder puffs attracted bees. 

Along the shore of Lake Erie, on a Port Clinton beach, nodding thistle grew. Their purple heads bobbed in the breeze as bees buzzed around them. The little winged creatures sought out the sweet nectar the thistle offered. So content to collect the liquid from the plant, the bees ignored me as I snapped their photo. They were intent on gathering the ingredients to make honey, a sweet reward.

Unfortunately, in our busy lives sweetness doesn't always abound. Have you ever said something you wished you could take back as soon as the words left your mouth? I have. Instead of lifting someone up; I said things that hurt. In junior high school, before I became a Christian, I remember saying something offensive to a girl I barely knew, to this day I wish I hadn't said anything. I not only hurt her feelings, but I carried the burden of speaking without thinking with me. I don't even remember what I said, but I know it upset her.

Maybe it's a good thing the pain I caused stayed with me—as a reminder that God wants me to choose my words wisely, to run what I say through His filter and determine if it is hurtful or kind. The lesson has stuck with me for years.

Every person is going through something. Difficulties have touched everyone, especially during the pandemic. Proverbs tells me gracious and kind words sooth and heal. With February proclaimed the month of love, help me spread love, kindness, and joy to every person. Instead of spitting negative thoughts into the air, let honey pour from our lips.

Speak with the graciousness and spread God's love.