More than four decades ago, I came across these nuggets of wisdom that ring just as true today.
SIX MOST IMPORTANT WORDS: “I ADMIT I MADE A MISTAKE.”
James 5:16, ‘Therefore, confess your sins to one another, that you may be healed…’
Admitting our faults to one another demonstrates maturity, submission and obedience. It can be game changing in a relationship.
FIVE MOST IMPORTANT WORDS: “YOU DID A GOOD JOB.”
I Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as, in fact, you are doing.”
Bible encouragement isn’t focused on someone’s new haircut or a good recipe. It’s focused on investing in their hopes, pointing out their gifts to the body of Christ and sharing in their strengths and faithful ministry. It’s essential!
FOUR MOST IMPORTANT WORDS: “WHAT IS YOUR OPINION?”
Proverbs 18:2, “A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.”
In God’s Kingdom, we have no opinions. We follow God’s Word. Period. But in regular life matters, opinions abound. Listening respectfully does not negate God’s truth or our own take on the subject, but hearing someone without being quarrelsome may open the door to Jesus. Listen.
THREE MOST IMPORTANT WORDS: “IF YOU PLEASE.”
Titus 3:2, “…to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle and to show perfect courtesy to ALL people.”
Courtesy is politeness in attitude and deed. It’s a lost grace that desperately needs resurrecting. Three fruits of the Spirit are kindness, goodness and gentleness. These three embody the essence of courtesy. We welcome it’s return.
TWO MOST IMPORTANT WORDS: “THANK YOU.”
I Thessalonians 5:18, “…give thanks in ALL circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Thank you. Two words. So impactful. Gratitude, true gratitude, builds relationships, eases tensions, open doors and honors our faith in Jesus.
ONE MOST IMPORTANT WORD: “WE.”
I Corinthians 12:14, “For the body is not one member, but many.”
A team win is the best! And sorrow shared eases the burden of pain. Corporate worship can bring heaven down and crowded altars can change the world.
Yep! They’re still true and they still work.
Vickie Richey
Christ Fellowship