You Don’t Have To Be Perfect

Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.

“I think I’m failing to parent my daughter well,” she said with a laugh to veil the honest admission. I was sitting outside one of my kids’ activities, watching from the window, when this mom I knew only nominally came and sat next to me. We engaged in small talk while our other kids played around us, but as they went to find a drink of water, the conversation took a turn toward more complicated subjects.

“I think we all feel that way at times,” I stated, encouraging her to continue.

“It’s probably because she’s my oldest,” she went on, “but we don’t always get along, and I wonder if I’m doing everything right. Maybe I’m messing them all up.”

I shook my head as I leaned toward her.

“You’re not,” I said. “Do you love your kids? Make sure all their needs are being met? Encourage them in the things they enjoy?” I waved my hand at our current surroundings. “Then you’re not failing. They’re going to be okay.”

She nodded and offered a smile.

“Thanks,” she whispered as our kids came bounding back toward us and the conversation trailed off to other topics.

There are people around us who need encouragement if we’ll only take the time to notice. For us as Christians, it should be second nature to say things that would be good and helpful, encouraging others who may need a little comfort or cheer. No one wants to feel alone, and when we take the time to listen to another’s story and offer support through our words, we’re following the ways of Jesus.

Kendra

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Think of a time you were grateful for someone else’s affirmation in a hard season. Find someone who could use a little support and take the time to share an encouraging word.