A Gracious Word

Whoever gives thought to the word 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 16:20-24 ESV).

I have been thinking lately about the power of words. They are powerful to remind, to instruct, to encourage, to correct, and to comfort. At times when we experience doubt, we can meditate on the words of Scripture and find His comfort to us. This comfort is most needed when we are facing affliction of body, mind, and soul. Wisdom tells us Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. Perhaps we should consider the sweet effect of gracious words. Gracious words are like honeycomb, sweet and healthful to the soul and body. They have tremendous power to change the course of a person’s life for the good, to rescue people from despair, and to bring great blessing. You don’t have to be rich or powerful; you don’t have to have degrees or be eloquent; just be gracious and you will significantly touch the lives of all kinds of people. Here are some suggestions:  A Complement: This is a word we often deny we want, but we certainly do enjoy when we receive it. Isn’t it nice to receive an honest complement, especially to get one totally unlooked for? “You really look nice today.” “You made a great contribution.” “That is a great job you did.” Look for ways to give them to others.  Some Encouragement: “You can do it; I believe in you.” “You’re going to be okay.” “That’s the way to try.” Such words give us the strength to go on.  Comfort: How good it feels to hear a sympathetic voice when we are hurting. “I’m here for you.” “I’m so sorry.” “I’m praying for you.”  Good humored words: Sometimes the best thing we can hear when we are down or worried or angry is a good humored remark. There is nothing like a little laugh to perk us up again and help us to see that the end of the world has not come.  Positive: In most bad events and discouraging news, there is something positive. How heartening when someone helps us to see it.  Listening words: “Tell me what you want to say; I’m listening.” “Help me understand what you are going through.” “Do you mean…?” It is satisfying to talk with someone who is foremost trying to hear what we are saying.  Words of Gratitude: “Thank you.” “Thanks for helping me.” “Thanks for your hard work.” “Thanks for listening.” How many times have our temper or depression been wiped away by the simple remark of thanks? I’ve been resentful, angry with persons who then come up to me and give a heartfelt thanks; all of a sudden, I switch to thinking how nice they are.