--SWEETER THAN HONEY~~

"Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones."
---(Proverbs 16:24)-

~~His topic was racial tension. Yet the speaker remained calm and collected. Standing on stage before a large audience, he spoke boldly--but with grace, humility, kindness, and even humor. Soon the tense audience visibly relaxed, laughing along with the speaker about the dilemma they all faced: how to resolve their hot issue, but cool down their feelings and words. Yes, how to tackle a sour topic with sweet grace.

King Solomon advised this same approach for all of us: "Gracious words are a honey, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones" (text). In this way, "The hearts of the wise make..their lips promote instruction" (v.23).

Why would a powerful king like Solomon devote time to addressing how we speak? Because words can destroy. During Solomon's time, kings relied on messengers for information about their nations, and calm and reliable messengers were highly valued. They used prudent words, not overreacting or speaking harshly, no matter the issue.

We all can benefit by gracing our opinions and thoughts with godly and prudent sweetness. In Solomon's words, "To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the proper answer of the tongue" (v.1).
Let's remember we all make up the body-of-Christ. We are family, in Jesus name. ~~

--"Our holy God, when we speak on hard topics, soften our hearts and words with Your sweet Holy Spirit. Thank You, Lord that we can always count on You to lead, guide and direct our path. In Jesus Name. ~ amen"

--"The God Who Stays" =(lyrics) / Matthew West //<https://youtu.be/flJF1fMvz5Y>
~~~~~~~~~~