“We’re Her Family Now.”
Many years ago, when we were missionaries in the Philippines, we decided to buy a family pet. Kelly the Dalmatian joined our family, and our children were thrilled to pour their love on this newest family member.
The first night we had Kelly, she was whimpering. Our 8 year old son cradled her like a baby and spoke words of comfort to the
puppy.
He said, “We’ll take you home tomorrow to see your
mommy. Don’t be sad.” Then he buried his face into the puppy’s neck
and cuddled with her.
I heard him say this and simply stated the
facts. “She won’t ever see her mother
again. We’re her family now.”
The next thing I heard was heart breaking, shoulder
shaking sobbing. I immediately
regretted my blunt communication. To a
child who had just been uprooted from all he knew and plopped down in a foreign
country—he couldn’t handle anymore simple truth.
My words were true, but my delivery was abrupt
causing another pain. I went over and
sat next to my son and wrapped him up in my arms. I took a bit more time to communicate the
message to his tender heart. “We’re
her family now. We get to love
her, play with her and care for her.”
It wasn’t long and that little puppy grew into a great
big dog that loved us and was a protector.
Ephesians 4:29 (ERV) When you talk, don’t say anything bad. But say
the good things that people need—whatever will help them grow stronger. Then
what you say will be a blessing to those who hear you.
This
week, take a moment to think before you speak.
When you do speak the simple truth
remember this—we’re family, so take the time to speak in love. Then what you say will be a blessing to those who hear you.
Beverly,
ReplyDeleteThis week's message is one I have been working on for a while. I am learning slowly to think before I speak and to speak in love. Thanks for the wonderful reminder of how we can be a blessing to others.
I think as long as we have flesh on our bones we will be working on speaking kindly to others. :)
DeleteAlways seems like u speak your devotionals from "MY" heart...odd but always seems very coincidental!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Gretchen. I'm so happy you are being encouraged and blessed.
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