'Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.' ~Proverbs 16:24

Every person, young or old, famous or unknown, large or small, black or white, successful or less successful, male or female, who receives encouragement is changed by it. This change is always positive, good and wholesome. It is also at the heart of our scripture readings. The history of God's journey with people down through the years is a collection of uplifting stories. People were encouraged and instilled with hope, particularly when they needed it most. These stories continue today. A word of encouragement can be uplifting, it can strengthen and you simply never know when a few sincere words can have an impact on someone's life. It has been said that correction does much, but encouragement does more. To encourage is a particularly precious gift we can give to someone, particularly when we do it today.