“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29 (ESV)
Charlene walked into the pastor’s office and slumped into a chair. She could see nothing positive in her life. She felt like a failure. She was so ordinary.
The pastor looked at her and thought, “What a beautiful young lady. Any guy would be proud to walk down the same street with her. She’s extremely intelligent. She has a great career ahead of her in medicine. She has a marvelous attitude and personality. She’ll make some young man a wonderful wife. Perhaps I should introduce my son to her.”
After the usual greetings, the pastor inquired what he could do for Charlene. She blurted out, “Oh, pastor, I’m so tall. I hate tall. Everyone picks on me about it.” The pastor bit his tongue. He knew he couldn’t laugh. This was real anguish for the girl.
“That’s odd. How tall are you?”
“Well. I’m just five-eleven. Almost six feet. But that’s tall for a woman.”
“You know, Charlene, I’ve never once thought of you as tall. When I look at you, I see a beautiful lady who is vivacious and intelligent. I see someone who is dedicated to God and will do great things in life.”
“You’re kidding me, right?”
“I am totally serious. You are so far ahead of those who would tease you. They only make fun of you because they can’t keep up with you. They aren’t even in your league. Remember that God formed you. He likes you just like you are. Who else matters?”
Charlene left her pastor’s office in better spirits than when she had arrived. How about you? No matter who you are, you need someone who thinks you are great. Remember, the Creator thinks you are. Who else matters?
By the way, I think you are great too! Perhaps you could pass this on to someone else who needs to hear some edifying grace.
Dear Father, thank you for your edifying grace. Empower us all to encourage one another in love and use every opportunity to build up those around us. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today and edify those who are listening,
