p. 26 | An Encouraging Word by T. E. Bowen

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 6, 1909

An Encouraging Word

By T. E. Bowen

EVERY one appreciates an encouraging word. The man may simply be cleaning the snow and ice from the walks. He may be paid by the city for doing this work; but a cheery remark in passing, a word of appreciation for the work he is doing, may help to brighten his work for the entire day. The father and mother, the aged parent, as well as the children, are all helped by an encouraging word.

Then, too, here is the church-school teacher, struggling on day after day with his work, often, perhaps, on the verge of discouragement, fully appreciating, no doubt, his shortcomings, conscious of mistakes, yet putting forth his best efforts to make a success of his work. Why not give him a few appreciative words occasionally?

Try it, dear parents. Make it in your way to visit with him occasionally; or send a note by your little boy or girl to him now and then, telling him how glad you are that he is associated with you in your efforts to lead your children to the Lord. Let him know that you are praying for him, and that you stand by him in his work. Be careful that you do not form your judgment of him and the value of his work altogether by what your children may tell you. They often get things a bit twisted—not perhaps intentionally. But anyhow, the safer way is to know for yourself how some things are. It will not be time lost should you visit his school at least once during the year. Put yourself in his place. What besides a genuine love to help some parent's child along the right path, would lead him to leave home and encounter the many unpleasant experiences he knows he must meet in his work? Why not make his stay with you a little brighter by a few helpful words now and then? It will not spoil him, or make him vain. Instead, it will help in bringing out the very best efforts of which he is capable. Learn to brush aside the unpleasant incidents.

How true it is, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue,” as Solomon wrote. And David, his father, also wrote of the truth when he said, “What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good? Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.” And Peter made a comprehensive statement when he wrote: “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous.”

An encouraging word along the way, how good is it!

T. E. BOWEN.