A Good Word

A wise person has said, “The real art of conversation is not only to say the right thing in the right place but to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment.” I read about a businesswoman who ordered a fancy floral arrangement for the grand opening for her new outlet. She was furious when it arrived adorned with a ribbon, which read, "May You Rest In Peace." Apologizing profusely, the florist finally got her to calm down with the reminder that in some funeral home stood an arrangement bearing the words, "Good Luck In Your New Location."

There are many passages in the bible that encourage us to use our words positively, building others up.

§ Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up. (Proverbs 12:25, NLV).
§ As surely as a wind from the north brings rain, so a gossiping tongue causes anger! It is better to live alone in the corner of an attic than with a contentious wife in a lovely home. Good news from far away is like cold water to the thirsty. (Proverbs 25:23-23, NLV).
§ Gentle words bring life and health; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time! (Proverbs 15:4,23, NLV).

Gentle, encouraging words are so important both to speak and to hear. We need these words of encouragement because life is a struggle. Jesus said that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. But He also said that in order to follow Him, we have to deny ourselves and take up our cross every day. In other words, we have to be willing to give up everything, including if necessary our own lives, in order to follow Christ. We have to be willing to suffer and sacrifice. Jesus said that following Him is not something to be entered into lightly; he warned that we must first consider the cost of doing so. And that cost is our life - everything have, everything we are. That means sometimes struggling. Encouragement is important because it is so powerful. Mark Twain wrote, "I can live for two months on a good compliment." There is a lot of truth to that! How can we encourage one another? Here are three practical suggestions:

1. First, realize that encouragement can come in many forms. Encouraging words, or maybe just an understanding ear and a willingness to just listen are forms of encouragement. It may be an arm around the shoulder, a gift, a note, an act of service, or a word of appreciation. The number of ways in which we can encourage one another are as many and varied as we are as individuals. The main thing is to communicate your love and care.
2. Second, give your presence to others. Instead of assuming a position of superiority, encourage others as a fellow disciple, a fellow recipient of God’s love and grace. Encourage them, as someone who in due time may need encouragement from them.
3. And, third, deal with the truth. Don’t pretend that their circumstances are any different or better than they really are. Don't use empty platitudes. But remind them of the truth about God, and the truth about themselves. Help them gain an eternal perspective on their troubles. Point them to Christ. Remind them that God loves them, that He’s in control, and that He hasn’t abandoned them. Remind them that God never fails, that He’s always faithful. Remind them that He’s always good, even when it seems otherwise. And while you’re reminding them of all that, you’ll find that it will become a reminder to yourself also.

You have such awesome power in your speech. You hold the power of spiritual life and health. Your speech has the power to revive, to renew, to refresh the spirit, and to lift others out of depression. That’s what encouragement can do. Isn’t it a shame to have such awesome power and not use it?