“Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, Sweetness to the soul, and health to the bones.” – Proverbs 16:24 (NKJV)
Careful observation reveals that Solomon had taken time to assess words that impact our personal lives and those of others, who may be in our sphere of influence.
Proverbs 16:24 speaks to pleasant words and from experience, we know that there are unpleasant words. The Oxford Dictionary connotes that pleasant means: ‘giving a sense of happy satisfaction or enjoyment’. Verse 24 goes on to say that these words are like “a honeycomb”. Research reveals that a honeycomb not only stores honey but also bees’ eggs and larvae. This construct speaks of production and new birth. Picture this scenario and consider what pleasant words are capable of doing. These words are sweetness to the soul, which includes the heart, and health to the bones, which are found all over one’s body.
As we consider the spoken word, let’s look at ourselves first. Proverbs 6:16-19 tells us of things that God hates. The list mentions a lying tongue, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren. We cannot judge others on these matters. Let’s take a look at ourselves. The existence of a healthy mind and body depends on taking heed to the laws of God. As it relates to people who speak unpleasant words to others in the form of threats, character assassination, criticism, and ‘shaming’, remember words of this nature form part of verbal abuse that can cause persons to develop mental issues.
Proverbs 15:4 (NKJV) says, “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, But perverseness in it breaks the spirit.” Here again is a reference to life, when wholesome words are spoken. NO PAIN, NO SICKNESS, NO HEARTACHE, would be felt. Perverse words do worse than break bones, they can break a heart, break a spirit. Thus, health and wellness hinge on declarations made over our lives by ourselves and by others.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray according to Psalm 141:3 and Psalm 19:14, that You set a guard over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.’ Lord, let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read : Proverbs 6:16-19; Matthew 15:17-20; Colossians 4:6
Bible Reading Guide: Psalms 119:81-88; 2 Timothy 1; Jeremiah 48; Jeremiah 49:1-6
