“A person finds joy in giving an apt reply — and how good is a timely word!”
Proverbs 15:23
We all have moments in life that have been really significant. They have shaped our thoughts and perspective. They are important moments!
When I was 12, I spent the day with a family friend. This friend had become like a second mom to me. We were engaged in a variety of household odd jobs when she paused and said, “Mike, you are a good boy.” My first thought was, “Really?”
I had experienced few affirming words up to that point. This honored friend’s words echoed in my heart that day and somehow imprinted on my identity, and then lingered as a poignant moment in my memory for decades. Years later, I told this cherished lady how important her words had been in my search for identity. Joy shone in her face at the knowledge that her simple words had impacted me so deeply.
In God’s economy there is the principle of reaping and sowing. As we are intentional to bless and encourage, we will be blessed and encouraged. Paul states this in strong language,
“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap” (Galatians 6:7).
He continues with the admonition,
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).
What words are you saying to someone else that will imprint on their memory and shape their identity? The seeds of your words can reap joy, today and later on.
Dear Father, help me to be an encouragement. You know every deep thought and need of those I will intersect with today and this week. May your Spirit give me simple and timely words or motivate me to acts of kindness to bless others. Amen.
By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission https://www.familylifecanada.com/
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