Speak Words of Blessing

Like one who takes off a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar on soda, is he who sings songs to a troubled heart. Prov. 25:20 NASB

I've lived in eastern Pennsylvania my entire life, and while it doesn't get as cold here as a lot of other places, I've never liked the winter weather. It seems to take forever just to get ready to go out: coat, scarf, gloves, thick socks and sturdy shoes -- and I still get cold! The cold temperatures are a reminder that the warm weather is far off in a place where only other people can enjoy it! And not only do I have to bundle up today, but I'll have to do it for a number of months before the tolerable temperatures arrive -- who knows the exact day that the cold will break? When I think of the discomfort of the cold and the ambiguity of it's endpoint, I get frustrated and discouraged.

When I came across Proverbs 25:20 one day, the thought came to my mind: as I interact with cancer patients or their caregivers, how often does it seem that I'm taking a garment when the arctic winds are blowing? How often do I sing songs to a troubled heart? Are my words flimsy niceties or are they words that intentionally direct a heart to find its hope in God?

As we go day to day, we all have a choice about how we use our words. The Bible is full of words of blessing that we can pass on to those around us -- no matter what their situation or where we meet them. For example, who among us wouldn't want to be reminded of these things:

For the LORD is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting and His faithfulness to all generations. Ps.100:5

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want& Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me. Psalm23:1

Can a woman forget her nursing child and have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands ... Isaiah: 15-16

I have been encouraged to speak God's words to those I meet, and I have seen the difference it makes in their lives. Let's not be people who take away a garment on a cold day, but rather friends who lead a neighbor to sit beside the warm fire of God's loving presence. We'll be amazed and blessed by how God increases the joy and peace in our midst -- no matter what the circumstance!

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