Day 16 — Words Like Honey

“Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”

— Proverbs 16:24 (BSB)

Have you ever tasted honey straight from a honeycomb? It’s sweet, sticky and delicious. In Bible times, honey was one of the sweetest treats anyone could have. There was no candy store down the street! So honey was a special, precious gift.

Proverbs says kind words are like that: “Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”

Think about a time someone said something really kind to you. Maybe a teacher praised your work. Maybe a friend told you she was glad you were her friend. Maybe your mom told you she was proud of you. How did it feel? Probably sweet. It might even have stuck with you for days.

Kind words don’t just feel nice. Proverbs says they’re “healing.” When a girl is hurting, discouraged or feeling bad about herself, the right words can actually help her heal on the inside.

Yesterday we talked about gossip, which is words that hurt. Today is about the opposite: words that heal. And you have the power to give them away every single day!

Here are some ways to give “honey words”:

• Notice something specific. Not just “You’re nice,” but “I love how you always include new girls.”
• Encourage character, not just looks. Instead of only complimenting her hair or outfit, praise her kindness, courage, creativity or hard work.
• Say thank you. Thank people for the little things they do.
• Write it down. A note or card can be read again and again.
• Speak up for someone. Say something kind about a girl who’s being left out or criticized.
• Be kind to yourself too. The words you say to yourself in your head matter. Would you talk to a friend the way you talk to yourself?

That last one is important. Lots of girls are very hard on themselves. I’m so stupid. I’m ugly. Nobody likes me. But God doesn’t talk to you that way. Try speaking to yourself with the same kindness He does.

Think about it: What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever said to you? Why do you think it meant so much?

Try this: Give three “honey words” today to three different people. Make them specific and true. And say one kind thing to yourself too.

Dear God, thank You for the power of kind words. Help me use my words like honey: sweet and healing. Show me who needs encouragement today. And help me speak to myself the way You speak to me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.