It isn't enough to say in our hearts
That we like a man for his ways,
It isn't enough that we fill our minds
That we like a man for his ways,
It isn't enough that we fill our minds
With paeans of silent praise;
Nor is it enough that we honor a man
As our confidence upward mounts,
It's going right up to the man himself,
And telling him so that counts!
If a man does a work you really admire,
Don't leave a kind word unsaid,
In fear that to do so might make him vain
And cause him to "lose his head."
But reach out your hand tell him,
"Well done," and see how his gratitude swells;
It isn't the flowers we strew on the grave,
It's the word to the living that tells.
~author unknown~
Nor is it enough that we honor a man
As our confidence upward mounts,
It's going right up to the man himself,
And telling him so that counts!
If a man does a work you really admire,
Don't leave a kind word unsaid,
In fear that to do so might make him vain
And cause him to "lose his head."
But reach out your hand tell him,
"Well done," and see how his gratitude swells;
It isn't the flowers we strew on the grave,
It's the word to the living that tells.
~author unknown~
Why do we withhold words of encouragement to others? Often times those words can bring healing and hope to a weary heart. (I know I have been the recipient of them) Yet how many of us have walked away from a situation downhearted because no one spoke (especially those we love and hold dear) an encouraging word. In our own selfishness, we stop ourselves from encouraging others in fear that they may look better than we do. Hebrews 3:13 says, But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness. Good words are worth much, and cost little.
Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. Proverbs 16:24
8 comments:
it is such the truth, i think of it also for my husband- how much i take for granted in him! have a wonderful day!
Such a wonderful reminder!! Thanks!
This is so timely for me. There is someone I have been meaning to write a note to and now I think I will.
Wow. Great insight and perceptions from a really important moment. May it bear much fruit.
So beautifully said Chris. If we could just remind ourselves what a blessing it is to hear a word of encouragement we wouldn't withhold that from someone else.
I just love that little poem.
Good word Chris, and let me use this time to tell you thank you for being such an encouragement to me. You are living what you preach (ooh did I just encourage you? I hope so!)!
Sue
This is so true...
People need to hear our encouragement while they are still with us.
And I'm reminded of something I heard once...that people remember the negatives about themselves that they hear much more readily...so we should shower people with positive affirmation.
Beautiful reminder, Chris.
What a great poem! And I love the last line "It isn't the flowers we strew on the grave, It's the word to the living that tells".
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