Proverbs 12:25 TPT – Anxious fear brings depression, but a life-giving word of encouragement can do wonders to restore joy to the heart.
Life giving words. I really like that thought, that we can speak life to those around us. I really like that we can bring encouragement to people who have anxious fear or depression.
I don’t know about you, but sometimes I find it hard to talk to people who are really anxious, fearful or depressed. It is hard to know the right words to say and how much to say.
One of the best things I learned is that when talking to an anxious or depressed person is to listen more than I speak. Someone once told me we have two ears and one mouth, so we should listen more than we speak. It helped me a lot!
Often if I am with someone who is in this space I will just listen and let them know I am right there with them. I am here to listen and help. I focus on this first and then try to offer life giving words at the end.
Numerous times as a Pastor or Chaplain I have been with people in this place. Life has just gotten on top of them at the moment and they need a listening ear and some encouraging words.
I have learned to slow down and not try to fix the situation and to just be present. Be there 100% to support. Listen and then try to offer a few life giving words of hope. Often this is all most people need.
There is so much power in our words. Words can heal and bring hope. And as the verse above says, “a life-giving word of encouragement can do wonders to restore joy to the heart.”
Blessings,
Dave
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