Words That Heal

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

Generally, when I think of wisdom, I think of the sayings found in the book of Proverbs. Today's verse is one of those sayings that can have a profound influence upon the way we communicate with others.

Yesterday, we mentioned that anger creates damage to our well-being.  The hope we find today is in how gracious words can restore health.  Gracious words are delightful or pleasant.  A simple "Good morning" is more powerful than not speaking at all.

Chick-fil-A employees are trained on this thought.  When thanked, they respond, "It's my pleasure."  I never tire of hearing this response, and hence, I continue to return for the great customer care I receive (plus, the great food...).

The sweet savoring words of one person adds breath to another.  What would happen to your employees if you intentionally added gracious words to your vocabulary?  How would they respond?  What about your spouse, your children, your friends, your employer, and on and on?  Your words could impact your environment and impact their environment which could spark a chain reaction of goodness...

Healing takes place in the comfort of one's home but not if one's world has been rocked by the venomous words of others.  Leader's have the best opportunity to create an environment that supports healing through the use of words that build people up rather than tear them down.

Do not get me wrong.  I am not calling for a place of fake accolades or where thoughts cannot be challenged.  I am talking about a change in how a leader begins to engage others in hopes of developing kinder and more open dialogue.

Note the preceding verse:

23 The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent, and their lips promote instruction.

One becomes more persuasive (not manipulative) when wisdom rules their tongue.  How can you implement gracious words into your vocabulary?  What do you think about this thought?

Feel free to leave a comment.