1 Samuel 14:37

And dipped it in an honeycomb and put his hand to his mouth.

The honey of God’s Word

There were three kinds of honey:

1. That which was made by bees.

2. That which was distilled from the trees.

3. That which was made from grape juice, and largely exported.

The kind Jonathan ate, was doubtless the product of the honey bee. This honey had a marvellous effect upon Jonathan. “It enlightened his eyes;” it strengthened his body so that the faintness which produced dimness of vision disappeared. God’s Word is our honey. The provision is abundant, like as was the honey in wild profusion in the woods which Jonathan entered. It is sweet. It gives strength. Above all, it has an enlightening power.

1. The Word of God enlightens the intellect. The Bible is God’s great school book to man.

2. It enlightens the moral sense. The needle of the compass must be magnetised if it is to point always to the north; the watch must be set by the sun, if it is to give correct time; so the conscience, to point always heavenward, must be brought under the influence of the Scriptures.

3. It brings light to the eye which has grown dim with sorrow.

4. It reveals the world in its true light.

5. It reveals the true nature of sin.

6. It reveals the sinner’s Saviour--the living, the crucified, the resurrected, the interceding, the justifying Saviour. Let us gather up three or four practical suggestions:--The honey of God’s Word is free, and is adapted to everybody. It never loses its sweetness or refreshing power. It is good to begin every day with a taste of it. It is wasted honey if you do not partake of it. (T. L. Cuyler, D. D.)