Pollen season!  For most of us that means medicine cabinets fully stocked with antihistamines, eye drops, and nebulizers. 

For honeybees, though, it’s nothing short of heaven. I imagine that if we could see their little faces as they buzzed around they’d be smiling from ear to ear.

They instinctively play their natural role in a pollination cycle that ensures beautiful flowers (and delicious honey) for years to come. 

While this alone makes me happy, I also admire them for being one of nature’s most unique examples of an encourager.

Recently, while watching a very plump bee do a deep dive into a flower, I was struck again by the simplicity of how, as the bee buzzes from flower to flower, it winds up dropping tiny particles of pollen along the way.

This simple act spreads life and generates growth – which is precisely what happens when we encourage one another!

Following His resurrection, Jesus instructed His followers to “go into all the world and share the gospel [the good news].” (Mark 16:15)  

Christ-followers have been looking to spread life-giving words (pollen) along our way as we cross paths with people (flowers) on our daily journey ever since.

“A person’s words can be life-giving…” (Proverbs 18:4)

For a bee, it’s easy to be a God-given central player in nature’s pollination cycle.  For us, opting to speak words of life and encouragement to others is a choice (and usually requires practice).

But, it’s worth it. 

In a world where so much of what people say is hurtful, ugly, and discouraging, doesn’t it behoove us to be more like the bee and use our words to pollinate kindness, love, and hope?

“Kind words are like a honeycomb: sweet to the soul and health to the body.” (Proverbs 16:24)

Interesting that God would compare our kind words to a honeycomb, isn’t it?  The very product of the bee’s pollen-gathering efforts.

How can you speak life into others around you today?  How can your words infuse hope and inspire growth?

Just like those incredible little bees, you have a fresh opportunity today to pollinate.  Let your words encourage humanity with hope and love as you speak life.

“Gentle words bring life and health…” (Proverbs 15:4)

Until next time, Grace and Glory!