Thursday – Letters

Reading – James 3

Highlight Verse:

“In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire.”
‭‭James‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“Fourscore and Seven years ago, Our forefathers…”

“Ask not what your country can do for you…”

“I have a dream…”

“Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”

These are little snippets from famous speeches in American History.

Those speeches changed history for the better by inspiring millions.

“You’ll never amount to anything.”

“Don’t be so stupid.”

“Why can’t you get that right?”

Those words (some of which I heard from my stepfather) inspire people to give up and fulfill the negative image painted for them.

They are easy to say while the inspiring speeches take great effort.

But the effort is worth it!

While I make great effort not to demean anyone with my words, I have had my share of words I needed to apologize for. I’m sure I have spoken accidentally careless or hurtful words and never noticed.

Words of kindness, encouragement, and joy have given me the strength to carry on.

Have you ever caught yourself verbally discouraging someone?
What can you do to create opportunities to encourage others?