Diane shares how the words of compassion we speak can be a sweet, crisp refreshment for an others soul.
“A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” (Proverbs 25:11)
I know you have all heard the phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words,” but these few words created such a vivid picture in my mind and heart I knew it was something meant to share.
So if you can picture this: A beautiful dining room, in the center,a lovely oak dining set with the table elegantly draped with a white linen table cloth. Set upon the center of the table is a beautifully ornate silver platter, upon which is a small tier of deliciously crisp, ripe golden apples, just waiting to be bitten into to taste their juicy goodness!
Now, keeping that picture in your mind, here is the God-thought to accompany it. . .
When called upon to comfort a friend or even a stranger, many of us feel we are not qualified or equipped to do so, but the good news is that God has already prepared you for that exact purpose. In fact, the words you speak or don’t choose to speak are like these delicious apples, they can be a sweet crisp refreshment for that person’s heart and soul.
God tells us in 2 Corinthians 1:4 “He comforts us every time we have trouble, so when others have trouble, we can comfort them with the same comfort God gives us.” (NCV)
We as chronically ill individuals have an extra helping of this blessing, as most of us live with the added gift of God’s comfort on a daily basis. How much more comfort must we have to share with others who are in need!
Who better to share a kind word, to give a hug, or just to sit and listen, when someone else is going through a difficult time?
So let us not shy away for being that crisp, refreshing reprieve for those in need of comfort. Let us willingly be used by the Father, allowing that which we have received from Him to become a testimony to the merciful, loving God He is.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that each day You offer us Your comfort and love. You are always near, loving us through each and every challenge we face. I pray now that You will place before us the opportunity to offer that same comfort You so freely give to us to others who are in need of You, that we may then bring You the Glory You so rightly deserve. Amen.
About the author:
Diane Kalata lives in Florida. She has three grown children, and a wonderful husband who offers much support. She enjoys leading a women’s bible study group as well as a chronic pain and illness support group. She enjoys art and writing as well. She is a colon cancer survivor, but deals with chronic digestive illness and pain. But her greatest joy is encouraging and sharing with others all that God has done in her life and continues to do.
Has God given you a picture with his words lately? How has he allowed you to be a crisp refreshment to another?
“Safe” is a song by Phil Wickham that shares how God has created a place for each of us that is safe and it is in His presence.
Chronic Illness Pain Daily Devotionals 