“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13).
“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1).
If people intentionally spoke to each other with encouragement and grace, this world would be a much better place. Consider how things would be different in our situations if we paused and prayed before speaking out of anger or frustration. When we give God our tense moments, we protect the spiritual health of ourselves and others.
Proverbs 16:24 says, “Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” God desires for His Spirit to filter our thoughts and emotions before letting them overtake our senses, causing harm to ourselves and others. Our words can either build people up or cut them down to the quick! Negative thoughts and words consume and rob us of peace. Yet, practicing a pause and speaking healing words not only lends to healthy relational boundaries but also demonstrates the love of our Savior to others.
Guiding Points:
Call to Action: The next time you get angry or frustrated, pause and give that tense moment to God. Speak peace and kindness in that situation. You will be better for it!
“Let everything you say be good and helpful so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them” (Ephesians 4:29).
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer” (Psalm 19:14).
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).
Prayer: Father God, thank You for all You do and for being with us today! Help us be kind to one another, remembering to pause and pray instead of speaking out of anger. We want to be more like You. In Your name, we pray, Amen!
Final Thought: We are each a work in progress, but encouraging one another benefits everyone!
Kind Words: Sweetness for the Soul
The Strongest Faith in the Deepest Pain
“For she said, ‘If I touch even His garments, I will be made well’” (Mark 5:28).
Walking Confidently in His Light
“For once, you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So, live as people of light!” (Ephesians 5:8).
On the Solid Rock, We Stand
“He alone is my Rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken” (Psalm 62:6).
Battling Anxiety: A Christian Perspective
“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad” (Proverbs 12:25).
Let the Peace of Christ Rule
“Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one Body, you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful” (Colossians 3:15).
Surrounded by The Father
“The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth” (Psalm 145:18).
God Uses Imperfect People in Extraordinary Ways
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10).
Turning Your Mess into a Message
“Come and hear, all you who fear God; let me tell you what He has done for me” (Psalm 66:16).
Encouragement and Prayer for New Graduates
Graduation is such an exciting moment! While it’s the end of a significant chapter, it’s the beginning of many new ones forward! Taking time to celebrate this milestone is important. While there may be some uncertainty about next steps, God’s Word provides direction for the road ahead. God cares about the details of every life and wants to lead each graduate to their purpose in Christ. When we seek His face and lean into Him, He promises to be with us in every step of the journey (Matthew 6:33).