“A person finds joy in giving an apt reply— and how good is a timely word!”
My scripture theme for this year has been the 2 great commandments given by Jesus in Matthew 22. The second one, love your neighbor as yourself, I summarize as “Be Kind”. Giving an apt reply and a timely word is a beautiful act of kindness and pleases God. Solomon is telling us that speaking wise and correct words to another has the power of bringing great joy to both the speaker and the listener. Not mentioned in this verse but obviously understood by it is the simple truth that unkind words shared will most often cause pain and sadness in both the speaker and the hearer. The source of joy is often the result of not only knowing we have pleased God, which is enough in itself, but is also in knowing we have blessed another one of Gods beloved children. If the words don’t bless the person we may have shared good wisdom but not been sensitive to the timing or their spiritual condition. However, it is an indication of God’s image also in the lost that even they can appreciate wise counsel given out of love and a kind heart. This is most effective when advice is asked for. So many times the tongue slips and wounds. Often unintentionally we say something and instantly regret it. But, the damage is done. With this in mind it is truly joyous when we see a person blessed by that same tongue. Today speak life and be a blessing. #BeTheEdge
“Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.” James 3:10 NIV
