Gracious Words – Proverbs 16:21-24

“John Chrysostom was an important Early Church Father who served as Archbishop of Constantinople. He is known for his preaching and public speaking, his denunciation of abuse of authority by both ecclesiastical and political leaders, the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom, and his ascetic sensibilities…The epithet Chrysostom means “golden-mouthed” in Greek and denotes his celebrated eloquence.”

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 16:21–24, ESV)

Does sweetness of speech exist on the internet, or in the halls of Congress, or in public life at all?  It is easy to get discouraged about the seeming lack of wisdom that prevails.  But sweetness of speech and persuasive lips come from discerning and wise hearts.  And though good sense brings life to the one who has it, teaching it to a fool is a lost cause.

But oh to be one whose words are gracious and brighten the lives of others like honey, that bring sweetness to the soul and health to the body of others.  Lord, train my heart in wisdom and discernment.  Make my speech judicious and persuasive.