Something Nice

Do you remember that old adage, "If you don't have anything nice to say don't say anything at all?" When did that go out of style? I am sometimes amazed at what people say to others. We have always made every effort to have our children to be kind to one another, and to treat each other with respect in words and actions. Recently, however, my husband and I decided to put practical emphasis in encouraging our children to be kind to one another. So once a week during our family evening worship time we start by first praying, (obviously) but then we go around and say something nice about each member of our family. It does something wonderful for our spirits. I guess that is why Paul in Ephesians 4:29-32 says:

29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

It has been a great way for us to encourage our children to be Godly. We look for opportunities to praise them and their good actions. All too often we see the negative things they do, (which still require correction) but how often do we forget to encourage and build them up? I can't but notice how well the kids respond to praise. Little Faith, our youngest, picked up the broom and was playing at sweeping. I encouraged her with how much "Mommy likes it when she helps, and how pleased it makes Jesus too!" Now she comes home from kindergarten takes the broom and sweeps the kitchen. The same of our ten year old Anah, she now takes out the trash without being told, because I mentioned how much it meant to me that she did that. Charlie 7, now helps Faith out of the vehicle and walks her to and from class because my husband told him how proud of him he was because he takes such good care of his sisters. What peace a little encouragement has brought to our family. Our homes should be a sanctuary. The world may often be unkind to us, especially for believers in the Lord Jesus Christ; therefore, our homes should radiate with the love of Christ. We aren't perfect, but we are striving to be like the one who is.