Speak Words of Kindness (Proverbs 12:25)

Devotional on Kindness:

A little child with learning difficulties had a tough time during her first sessions in class and was coping poorly. During the following year however, her learning improved quite dramatically. In case you’re wondering why? – Well, after her first day in the new class, the new teacher called up every child individually and whispered something into their ear. When this particular child walked up, the teacher had leaned over and whispered, “I wish I had a child like you.” Those words of kindness were the catalyst for a powerful change in the child’s behavior and learning.

Country singer Christy Lane once sang –

“You don’t have to make it clever

I like the way you say it better

When you tell me just the way you feel.

Simple little words – like saying I love you, like saying I need you, like I’m thinking of you.” (Lyrics from the song Simple Little Words)

Perhaps we could add words like ‘I’m sorry’, ‘forgive me’, ‘thank you’, and ‘well done’. There are of course many, many, more words of kindness.

Scripture Thoughts:

The Bible tells us in Proverbs 12:25 that “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up”, and Proverbs 16:24 says, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Maybe we could use some simple words in kindness today to build healing, courage, and hope in someone? I am reminded that when the Disciple Ananias met Saul – his then greatest enemy – for the first time – with kindness, he lovingly called him “Brother Saul”. What a beautiful way to welcome someone who was a potential threat to Ananias at that time – but eventually went on to become one of the greatest influences of faith!

Finally, Colossians 4:6 says, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” That’s a great way to communicate! So, will you be conscious of the words you speak today and show kindness to someone?

God bless you.

For further reading about the negative words we speak, click here.

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