Drip, Drip, Drip
By
Jeannine Sawall
“Let
your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right
response for everyone.”
Colossians
4:6 (NLT)
I’m sitting at the
table enjoying the view of majestic snow capped mountains in the distance.
Spring is coming as I see the snow drip, drip, dripping from the trees and the
eaves. It’s a wonderful reminder of the newness that is just around the corner
as the snow-covered landscapes give way to fresh, green grass and leaves. A
refreshing blast of cool water as it splashes and sparkles in the sun.
I’m picking up laundry
downstairs as I hear an annoying drip, drip, drip. Where is that noise coming from? Suddenly, I see a puddle of
water where water should not be. There on the windowsill: we have a leak. Now I have to get a towel and clean up the
mess this unwanted drip has left and report the leak so that it can be repaired
before it causes more problems. This is not the same kind of refreshing drip
bringing newness; rather, it’s an irritating one that can bring serious damage.
As I sat down after
encountering these two drips - - so similar, yet so different - - I thought
about how our words can either be refreshing like the dripping from the spring
thaw, or a nagging annoyance like the drip from the window. When we use our
words for gentle reminders or encouragement, to build up our family and
friends, we strengthen them and bring them joy. We are showing our appreciation
and make them feel valued and loved. Encouraging words bring refreshment! However, when we use our words to nag them
into submission, we are anything but refreshing. Nagging words build walls and
resentments, stirring up strife and causing potential damage to relationships.
So how do we become
more of an encourager and less of a nag? First, we need to start kneeling in
prayer and stop needling with nagging. Before speaking, ask the Lord to help us
choose words that come across as loving rather than discouraging. Seek to use
words that convey a caring heart, rather than irritation.
We need to be
purposeful, and find opportunities to build up our family and our friends with
our words. Surprise them with a small note of encouragement, give them an
unexpected phone call, or pray for them and with them! We have the power to be
an encourager with our words, or to be a discourager. The Bible is replete with
hundreds of words of encouragement. We are called to be refreshing encouragers
and to always have a positive word to share.
GOING DEEPER:
1. What do you think a
nag sounds like? Does it sound like you?
2. How can you be more encouraging to your
family and friends?
FURTHER READING:
Jeannine
is a wife and mother of four active boys. She works in the property management
business. Jeannine is actively involved in ministry to those walking through
grief.
