Weighty Words
She doesn’t mince her words and so when she says something, you know she means it.
Reference: I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.” (Luke 7:28 NIV)
Explore: I was recently given a compliment that meant a great deal to me.
It wasn’t the words that were spoken or even the time they were given. It was the person who spoke them.
The person who paid me the compliment is amazing at everything, but not one to give out praise without it being worthy. She doesn’t mince her words, and so, when she says something, you know she means it.
When this gift of praise was offered, it carried great weight as I knew it was not given lightly.
Application: Let’s be honest, we all like to receive a compliment. We feel good when we receive praise and acknowledgement.
When Jesus acknowledged people it came with great worth. I mean, Jesus was perfect. And he wasn’t going to fudge the truth just to make someone feel better!
But as far as lifting people up, He was pretty much the best. No one is as good as His Father and if anyone could bring someone down a peg or two, it would be Jesus. In fact, He did it to the religious leaders a few times.
But to those who needed encouragement, He gave support and hope. His main mission field was the everyday people and those who were suffering.
What a great example He has given us!
Prayer: Lord, thank You for lifting me up. May I listen for Your words of encouragement when I feel down hearted. Amen.
Who can you give encouragement to today?
This article was written by Linda Bailey
Linda started theological studies in 1999 in Australia. After working for ten years in various church ministries, she now works as the breakfast producer at 89.9 LightFM - the Christian radio station in Melbourne, Australia. She writes blogs every day about passages she is currently reading in the Bible. Follow her on Google Plus +Linda Bailey or Facebook by clicking the like button on the right of this page.