The longer we walk with Jesus the more we see the value of fellowship, friendships, family, and the encouragement that comes from these relationships. So much of what happens in the world is so disheartening, and we get blasted with one negative report after another through media broadcasts. Life-altering events happen everyday in peoples’ lives, many times leaving behind devastation, heartbreak, tragedy or confusion. Because of all this, I have noticed the increased value of giving someone a warm smile, a hug or handshake, and especially a kind word.
Proverbs 12:25 Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad!
To think that we can change someone’s day with a good word is AWESOME! We all face various difficulties in our daily lives, but a simple word of encouragement can give us a better perspective on the problem and help us see beyond it, directing us to a viable solution.
I know in my life there have been numerous times that my spouse, a family member, a friend, a pastor or teacher had just the right word at the right time for my situation, and recall how much I needed it and how thankful I was.
Several months ago we were struggling with making a big decision, which weighed VERY heavily on my heart. After wrestling with it for a few weeks, I FINALLY decided. Within five minutes, my mind still spinning with doubts of my decision, a minister friend called me to share a message that the Lord had impressed on him. It was TOTAL confirmation that I had made the right choice and brought incredible freedom and peace to my soul!! I’m SO thankful for his obedience!
After the loss of our son, friends would continually text or email us with loving words of affirmation. These kindnesses went a LONG way to help comfort our aching hearts during a very tumultuous season.
Sometimes even just a smile, a greeting, a simple email, call or text can help someone more than we can imagine. Let’s not underestimate the influence that our words can have in helping someone.
People everywhere are starving for kindness and affirmation. Let’s be the vessels that speak life to those in our world.
Ephesians 4:29 Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
God’s Good Word
As believers, let’s also remember that God sent HIS GOOD WORD to encourage and lift us daily. Look at the words of God in your Bible as if Jesus were sitting right there inspiring you. Jesus said that His Words are spirit and life. One Word from God can totally change your day, your outlook, and your life!
I was thinking about the fact that when someone I highly respect in the Lord calls just to give me a word of encouragement, I am so lifted! But then I thought about the fact that JESUS – the King of Kings and Lord of Lords calls us every day to fill us with HIS words of encouragement! Through His written word and also by speaking directly to us through His Spirit, He lavishes His love and mercy on us. That’s so awesome!
Look at THIS: Psalm19:7-8 The instructions of the LORD are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight for living.
So let’s hold on to these healthy perspectives, cherishing God’s words to us and then be ready everyday to give a good word to others.
Colossians 4:6 Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.
Blessings to you all,
Enjoy these nuggets from Psalm 119
54 Your decrees are the theme of my song wherever I lodge
98 Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, they are my constant guide
103 How sweet your words taste to me; they are sweeter than honey
104 Your commandments give me understanding
105 Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path
114 You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope
127 Truly, I love your commands more than gold, even the finest gold
130 The teaching of your word gives light, so even the simple can understand
133 Guide my steps by your word, so I will not be overcome by evil
147 I rise early, before the sun is up; I cry out for help and put my hope in your words
162 I rejoice in your word like one who discovers a great treasure
172 Let my tongue sing about your word, for all your commands are right
