A few loving words can bring God’s peace

In 1865, President Lincoln’s personal belongings, including the contents of his coat that he wore on the evening of his assassination, were given to his eldest son, Robert. Then, they were passed down to Robert’s daughter, Mary, who donated them to the Library of Congress.

Nearly 100 years later, President Lincoln’s personal items were placed in a box. The contents of the box were revealed to the public.

Among the items that President Lincoln carried with him were several pairs of eyeglasses and a pocket knife found which was likely used to repair his glasses. Lincoln’s coat also contained a gold watch fob, a white handkerchief, and a few newspaper clippings.

But what was interesting is that several articles that President Lincoln kept with him were complimentary pieces about his performance as president. When Lincoln needed encouragement, he would most likely read and re-read the gracious and flattering words. If his spirits were sagging or he had a bitter disappointment, the positive affirmations would build up President Lincoln and strengthen him for the challenges ahead.

Do you understand how powerful your words are to others? How often do you speak quickly, without giving thought to the force and impact of your words?

People’s self-esteem, their hopes and dreams can be influenced by what you say. Just as an artist paints his or her masterpiece, you are a creator; and with the words you speak, you are creating your life and other’s lives. We have the capability, with our language, to make a person stronger and totally responsive. By the virtue of our words and ways, we can change a person’s life. So, open your heart to kindness. A few loving words can bring God’s peace.

God has great plans for your future. You were born to excel, to make a difference in the lives of others, and achieve your goals bringing about what God has called you to accomplish. Hence, really think about what you say on a daily basis about yourself and others. For kind, inspiring, reassuring words may take only a few minutes to write or utter. Yet, in the heart and mind of a person, they can last a lifetime. For every affirmative word that you offer to another can be one of the most enduring and long-lasting gifts you can ever give to them.

I have written about this before, but it bears repeating. Years ago, I was in a local photo shop picking up some pictures and feeling pretty glum. I felt as if I had the weight of the world on my shoulders, my mind filled with doubts, as I struggled with past hurts, losses, mounting bills and a life filled with uncertainty.

While I was awaiting my turn, I noticed the man behind the counter write a few words on a pink sticky note. Then, to my surprise, he handed it to me. The man’s name was David, and I had seen him only a few times before. A bit startled, I took the sticky note from him, and looked at the words on the small piece of paper. It read, “You are wonderful and are worth every good thing that happens to you.”

I can’t begin to describe what those words meant to me… and still

Do you understand how powerful your words are to others? How often do you speak quickly, without giving thought to the force and impact of your words?

mean to me. Even now, as I am sharing this story with you, my eyes fill with tears. I clung to that note, reading and re-reading it time and again, carrying it with me for years, and allowing it to become a beacon of light in my then dark world.

Today, I still carry that pale pink note with me in my Day Timer. And from time to time, I take it out and remember, with thankfulness, David, the man with the kind words I will never forget.

Daily, let us resolve to use expressions of appreciation and encouragement, words of reassurance and comfort, tenderness, and genuine affection. Extend sincere compliments or admiration to those you meet along the way. Avoid bickering and fault-finding. A while back, a reader wrote, “Here’s a Native American prayer that hangs on our wall that says: ‘Grant that I may not criticize my neighbor until I have walked a mile in his moccasins.’”

The letter continued, “It is so easy to criticize someone, not knowing their reason for what they do.” Even when delivered in fun, criticism can hurt and have lasting effects, stunting the growth of a healthy self-image. Maybe you were raised in a home where you were unfairly criticized, but you can stand strong and say, “I am not passing that on to my family.” If words do not build confidence, establish love or encourage another, it is better to say nothing at all. Let’s pray that God will lead us to say and do the right things, speaking the truth in love.

Your voice’s potential for good is boundless. Express thankfulness for the people in your life. Say, “I’m grateful for you,” “You’re a blessing to me,” “I’m proud of you,” and “I love you.” The more you express aloud your appreciation and love, the more love and appreciation you will feel.

At the office or in business, pass on praise and applaud another’s efforts. If you can, give someone a fine recommendation. For that reference can be the break that is needed to open a new window of opportunity. At a restaurant, if you received good service, perhaps tell the manager that the waitstaff did a great job. Maybe you had a pleasant experience at a retail store, write a positive review for the business. Call, send a note, or an email to a friend you haven’t seen in a long time.

God has given you special gifts and strengths. And He has chosen you to make a profound difference. So, don’t let anything keep you from being a great influence in the lives of your fellow human beings.

There is so much ahead for you. Therefore, find someone to be good to and speak blessings over them every single day. The world needs your radiance to shine brightly to make it a better place.

Speak faith, hope and love. Look forward to what God has in store for you with joy and anticipation. And you’ll live in victory all the days of your life.