Boaz is an example of someone in the Bible who spoke "gracious words.” Naomi and Ruth were two devastated widows. Ruth went one morning to the fields of Boaz, as a stranger looking for food. But Boaz lifted up her heart with these friendly words: "Now, listen, my daughter… keep close to my young women.… And when you are thirsty, go to the vessels and drink what the young men have drawn.… All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been full told to me.... The Lord repay you for what you have done" (Ruth 2:8–12).
With an abundance of encouraging words such as these, Boaz indeed soothed the deep wounds of Naomi and Ruth. His words were medicine, and also honey—that favourite sweet snack in Israel. With pleasant words, we not only give pleasure to people, but we also create a healthy atmosphere to work and live in.
24 Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.