Toy Stories: Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head — Love and Respect vs. Bitterness and Resentment - Monday
TODAY’S VERSE
Psalm 119:130
The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. (ESV)
I was recently asked to perform a graveside service for a woman who had passed away due to complications from a fall. My wife, Beth, knew the extended family, so she attended the service with me. Most people at the service were under a tent by the grave. Others, including my wife, were just outside the tent. Beth happened to be standing in such a way that she was in my direct line of sight. I spotted her almost immediately after I started my message. Her presence was encouraging, especially as I tried to offer words of comfort to a grieving husband who had just lost his wife.
I’ve done more funerals than I can count over the years as part of my work in ministry, and Beth has only attended a fraction of them. As we walked back to the car after the service, and again a little later as we had lunch and ran errands, she mentioned how proud she was of me, and how my words were so comforting and appropriate in the midst of a sad situation. It’s difficult to articulate how meaningful her words were. She offered just a few sentences, but I heard volumes!
There’s something about a wife’s affirmation that quickly fills a husband’s emotional tank. Men are designed to think in terms of providing and protecting, so to be reminded that we’re doing things in a way our wives think is admirable is highly motivating. It compelled me to return her kindness by making sure she knows how much she’s loved.
Today’s verse in Psalm 119 is particularly applicable and somewhat humorous! Words are powerful, especially words offered for the good of another. Even a simple-minded husband gets it when his wife speaks respectfully of him!
APPLICATION
Paul says in Ephesians 4 to only use words that will build up, not those that tear down. Measure your words carefully today.
PRAYER
Father, Your words literally spoke life into existence. And they continue to speak life today. May we choose Your words over the impulsive words we often regret saying.
