Honey is a sweet and viscous (thick and sticky) substance made by several species of bees. Many use it for various things like recipes, applying it to various foods, and adding to our favorite teas just to name a few. Once applied to an item of our choice, the primary objective of honey is to:
- Enhance the taste of food to something gratifying and pleasing to eat (or drink), that would otherwise be sour, bitter, bland, or odorless.
- Enhance the nutritional value of what we are consuming that we may benefit from its fortifying and healing properties.
Just as we enjoy honey in modern society, they also did in the ancient world. It was (and is) one of the most natural and sweetest substances that enriches anything it was applied to. Using honey as a metaphor, Solomon likens its attributes to the wisdom of God….in that… it is beneficial and desirable to a person who seeks to live in according to God’s will and ways. Solomon elaborates on its benefits as follows:
Our prosperity is baked into God’s wisdom. He says, “if you find it, there will be a future.” We are exhorted by scripture to seek it like it is the greatest treasure of earth. If we do, we shall uncover it, (Prv 2:3-5), “yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, (4) if you seek it like silver and search for it as hidden treasures, (5) then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.”
Just as honey can have an enriching impact on our health when used and applied appropriately, the wisdom of God sustains our inner life (soul). Solomon continues,“…and your hope will not cut off.” This truth highlights the internal conflict of our decision process to follow our own way vs God’s. Depending on how we choose, there are very different outcomes. Meaning, if I am led by my own wisdom and ways, embedded within such decisions is my imminent destruction, like drinking Kool-Aid laced with cyanide. Solomon teaches, (Prv 14:12), “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”
In contrast, God’s way gives us life and peace in Jesus. God’s way enriches our joy that we may appreciate and take pleasure in the richness of his glory. God’s wisdom (when applied to our lives according to his prescription) sustains our hope and confidence in him.
Solomon’s central point is this: When we possess wisdom (like honey), it fortifies our lives with God’s truth and brings healing to our souls. Only in fellowship with God and doing life his way do we see our future hope. Let us praise the name of Jesus by which these promises are available to us forevermore! Hallelujah! Amen!
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D.
www.springoflivingwaters.com