In the busyness of our everyday routines, it is easy to become stressed out; so, when something truly difficult comes along, we can become anxious and at times, even depressed. I recently saw a comic strip that illustrated this perfectly:

Several businessmen were walking along with slumped shoulders and long facesâ€"an obvious depiction of having the “weight of the worldâ€� upon them. But, amid all of this gloom, one man was hopping along, with his head held high. In the next frame there was a booth that read “Kind Words Hereâ€�; with a rather short line of men in front of it.

The irony in this cartoon was that all these men had walked by the free booth without bothering to stop, and so they continued their way, downhearted and depressed.

This is, too often, a real scenario; sometimes we need a kind word and other times we can work the “kind words� booth and help lift others up. Unfortunately, when we feel down, kind words are not readily available. Likewise, when we can use kind words, we hold them back.

The kindest word to cheer up an anxious person can be found in Philippians 4:6, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.� God’s Word is the true source of peace, and prayer is the truest way to deal with a problem. If you are anxious, consider this a kind word to you. If you know someone who is anxious, be a source of encouragement to get them through their day and you will do much good in the name of Jesus.

If you need a kind word, then I will say to you, “You can do this!�, “You’ve got this!�, “It’s gonna be OK!�, and “I’m praying for you today!�

Suggested Prayer: Dear Lord, I bring my anxiety to you today and ask that you provide me with a peace that will surpass my understanding. Allow me to be an encouragement to someone and that my words will direct them to you and your unending love. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

1. Proverbs 12:25 (NIV).     

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.