Rev. Ray and Pat Amos
Proverbs 15:4-6
Gentle words bring life and health; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.
I remember a pastor friend who had a car to break down in an inner city where he was a complete stranger. He heard several people walking his direction and talking loudly. The dim streetlights offered lzittle comfort, and there was no one else in sight. A group of people were walking his direction in the shadows of the buildings.
One guy in the oncoming gang was louder than the others. We do not always realize the power of words. They can rip a soul apart or pour healing back into it. He did not expect to hear the words that were being spoken. The louder voice said: “Man, my God is cool!” Those few words took a worried traveler from fear to peace. My friend said that even if he had been an atheist, that he would have felt better because people who talk like that have a reputation of goodness.
Each day we have opportunities to speak tidings of comfort and joy, to give encouragement, and to witness our faith in Christ. It is true that we should choose our words carefully because we never know what someone else is going through. We should also be kind when we speak them. “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”
God sent us the word that we need, a living Word that redeems the lost, heals the broken, and gives hope when no other words will do. Say the Word, speak it with deepest Love. One day every knee will bow, and every tongue will speak it. The word of all words is Jesus.
“Holy words long preserved
For our walk in this world
They resound with God’s own heart
Oh, let the ancient words impart
Words of Life, words of Hope
Give us strength, help us cope
In this world, where ever we roam
Ancient words will guide us home.”
Grace and Peace, Rev Ray
Link to Youtube – Ancient Words
