Proverbs 16:23-24 (ESV)
23 The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious
and adds persuasiveness to his lips.
24 Gracious words are like a honeycomb,
sweetness to the soul and health to the body.
Solomon begins with “the heart of the wise,” once again reminding us that our words reveal what fills our hearts. The wise woman gives careful thought to what she does and does not say. A woman whose heart is governed by God’s wisdom speaks words that genuinely benefit others. Whether offering sincere praise or loving correction, she seeks to say what is fitting at the proper time. The wise heart directs the wise tongue.
Wisdom “adds persuasiveness to his lips.” The wise are often able to convince others because they do not waste their words on trivial matters or unnecessary arguments. They are humble enough not to take every disagreement or offense personally, allowing them to keep the focus on what truly matters. When an important truth needs to be spoken, the wise woman lovingly does everything she can to help others receive it.
Gracious words are “like a honeycomb.” Honey was treasured in the ancient world because it was wonderfully sweet, making it a symbol of delight. In the same way, gracious words are a delight to those who hear them. Words marked by genuine love encourage the discouraged and refresh the weary. Rather than wounding others through harshness or criticism, the wise woman blesses those around her with words that are pleasing and life giving.
Gracious words do more than delight the hearer. They are “sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” In the ancient world, honey was valued not only for its sweetness but also for its healing properties. Just as honey helped promote physical healing, gracious words bring healing to the inner person. Harsh and thoughtless speech often leaves deep wounds, but words spoken in love restore hope, encourage the weary, and strengthen the discouraged. Truly, gracious words have the power to change the course of a life.
The Proverbs repeatedly remind us to restrain our speech. These verses also remind us to use our words intentionally for the good of others. A heart that is humble before God, eager to receive his instruction, and willing to accept his correction will produce speech that is thoughtful and life giving. Have your words lately brought sweetness to the souls of those around you? Ask God to fill your heart with his wisdom so that your words encourage the discouraged, strengthen the weary, and point others to him.