Proverbs 25:11

“A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”

I remember driving down the street in Lubbock with Paul. I can’t remember what I was so bugged about, but I was almost to the point of tears. I do remember Paul’s words. They had nothing to do with what I was angry with. He simply reminded me of our friendship. Whatever it was that bothered me that day no longer exists. But Paul’s words still encourage.

I remember calling my dad and telling him about some ideas… just wondering about where God might be leading me. I was afraid of the ideas. I thought he’d speak some sense into me and I’d move on with life. Instead, he told me about times he’d felt God moving him; times he was scared, even times those around him told him, “DON’T DO IT”. He told me how God prevailed despite his fears. To steal a line from Rich Mullins, “Stories like that make a boy grow bold. Stories like that make a man walk straight.”

What “word aptly spoken” has encouraged you? Formed you?