Several years ago my Mr. AGPMan and I started a little practice in our home I wish we had begun years earlier when our two children, Brandon and Adrienne, were small. Although the message of being kind to others was consistently taught to them, I know for certain as parents we could have done a better job of living out the example of grace in our daily lives. In spite of our imperfection, our kids grew up to be incredibly loving people and today I am so proud of them! No doubt the Hand of God is upon them.
One of my favorite scriptures is found in the book of Ephesians 4:29 (King James Version) and it says this:
"Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth,
but that which is good to the use of edifying,
that it may minister grace unto the hearers."
I like the New International Version...it says it this way:
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths,
but only what is helpful for building others
up according to their needs,
that it may benefit those who listen."
Few people realize the difference positive, loving encouragement from us can make in the life of another. Over the years I've met so many incredible men and women whose dreams were dismantled by a hateful, careless comment or sarcastic word. I've always wondered if the people who routinely attack others grow as tall as they hope to feel when trying to make others feel small.
A Little Word
A little word in kindness spoken,
a motion or a tear,
Has often healed the heart that's broken,
and made a friend sincere.
Then deem it not an idle thing
a pleasant word to speak;
The face you wear-the thoughts you bring-
The heart may heal or break.
(Daniel Clement Colesworthy)
~~*~~
Blessings to you today as you lift up and edify another. I promise you your rewards will be great!
"Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Proverbs 12:18 NIV)
Love to you...
