An Encouraging Word

My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word! When I told of my ways, you answered me; teach me your statutes! Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your wondrous works. My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word! Put false ways far from me and graciously teach me your law! I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set your rules before me. I cling to your testimonies, O LORD; let me not be put to shame! I will run in the way of your commandments when you enlarge my heart! (Psalm 119:25-32 ESV). Recently, I heard a touching story, which illustrates the power that words have to change a life, a power that lies right in the hands of those reading this devotional. Sally had grown up knowing that she was different from the other kids, and she hated it. She was born with a cleft palate and had to bear the jokes and stares of cruel children who teased her non-stop about her misshapen lip, crooked nose, and garbled speech. With all the teasing, Sally grew up hating the fact that she was “different”. She was convinced that no one, outside her family, could ever love her … until she entered Mrs. Leonard’s class. Mrs. Leonard had a warm smile, a round face, and shiny brown hair. While everyone in her class liked her, Sally came to love Mrs. Leonard. In the 1950s, it was common for teachers to give their children an annual hearing test. However, in Sally’s case, in addition to her cleft palate, she was barely able to hear out of one ear. Determined not to let the other children have another “difference” to point out, she would cheat on the test each year. The “whisper test” was given by having a child walk to the classroom door, turn sideways, close one ear with a finger, and then repeat something, which the teacher whispered. Sally turned her bad ear towards her teacher and pretended to cover her good ear. She knew teachers would often say things like, “The sky is blue,” or “What color are your shoes?” But it didn’t happen that way on that day. Surely, God put seven words in Mrs. Leonard’s mouth that changed Sally’s life forever. When the “Whisper test” came, Sally heard the words: “I wish you were my little girl.” The psalmist in our reading this morning is pointing us to the truth that God is that kind of teacher. He has more than just whispered, He has shouted that He wants us to be His child. And when we call out to Him He will never disappoint us. However, there is one more truth for us to hear today. There are many people in our lives who need to hear those encouraging words from us. We become “God with skin on” to them. It is an incredible blessing when we use affirming words to others. They are easy words to formulate. I’m proud of you! Way to go! Well done… you did it! Magnificent! I knew you could do it! You’re very special to me! I trust you! What a treasure! Hurray for you! Beautiful work! You’re a real trooper! That’s so creative! You make my day! You’re a joy! I love you! You’re so responsible! You remembered! You’re the best! I couldn’t be prouder of you! You light up my day! I’m praying for you! You’re wonderful! I’m behind you! You’re so kind to your! You’re God’s special gift! I’m here for you! These are the words God has for us. Can’t we find the means to give them to others also?