In March we will be talking about Joy, one of the Fruits of the Spirit. Joy can be found in many things, but what about the joy we feel when we have the right words in the right moments? Sometimes something beautiful comes of it…
“A person finds joy in giving an apt reply—and how good is a timely word!” (Proverbs 15:23)
Having the right words is a joy I wish I felt more often. Or rather, I wish that I had the right words, but also at the right moment.
“An apt reply” makes me think of all the times the perfect comeback would jump into my head, only to deflate like an untied balloon because the argument had ended hours ago. So much for timely.
This was especially true when I was a child, trying to go toe to toe with an older sister who had a better command of words than I did. It’s no wonder I threw that Sesame Street toy at her head – words were failing me, but my angry little arms would not (I still don’t remember this incident, but am told it did happen).
But too often the right words desert us. And there’s no joy is saying the wrong thing and putting your foot in your mouth. There’s no joy in having no response when someone upsets you. And there’s no joy in not knowing the right thing to say when someone looks to you for spiritual guidance.
Joy in having the right words even when we can’t find them ourselves
All through the book of Acts, we can read about faithful believers and apostles who suddenly had just the right words. The Holy Spirit was in them and gave them the words to speak God’s message.
What a joy it must have been! To know exactly what to say to their persecutors. To know what would turn a hard heart to one open to Jesus. And to bring comfort, conviction, and salvation.
Words are my stock in trade and I know how hard it can be to find the right ones. And sometimes the right ones flow out of me from a place I don’t really control.
Sometimes they come when I’m writing, but more often they come when I’m speaking. When I’m trying to comfort a hurt child. When I’m trying to help a friend who isn’t making good choices. Or when I’m trying to soften a few hard hearts of my own.
There is joy in knowing that when our own words fail us, God is ready to provide us with not only the right words – but the best words.
God’s words are always timely and they are always apt. He speaks to us and through us, if we are just willing to listen before we speak.
Today, I hope you feel the joy of having God’s best words flowing through you as you comfort, encourage, and teach those around you. Our command of words may not always be up for the job, but the Holy Spirit is always willing to perfectly equip us.
Have a blessed Monday!
Looking for more encouragement and inspiration today? Check out these posts:
Words That Heal and Words That Hurt
Words That Heal and Words That Hurt
Leave a Reply