Encouraging Words

Nº 253

weekly devotions to refresh your soul by Dr. Dan Bolin - June 6, 2023

The world is full of discouragers. We have a Christian duty to encourage one another. Many a time a word of praise or thanks or appreciation or cheer has kept a man on his feet. Blessed is the man who speaks such a word. - William Barclay

I spent 25 summers working at a Christian camp. Over the years, thousands of campers and staff rolled through the gates. A few weeks ago, I received an email from a man who served on summer staff almost 40 years ago. He worked hard, enjoyed camp, and married a summer co-worker. I totally lost track of them, and we had not interacted for decades.

That 20-something college student I knew is now a retired grandfather.

His message was filled with kind and encouraging words. I was not having a bad day, but it certainly got better as I read his heart-felt comments. It was refreshing and heartening to know that a relational investment made decades ago was still paying dividends.

The ancient proverb came to mind, “Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land.” (Proverbs 25:25) The “distant land” may be time or space, but the effect is the same – deep soul refreshment.

We all stand on someone else’s shoulders; we all owe others a debt of gratitude. My friend chose to reach through the years and encourage me. Maybe someone in your past needs a cup of good news from a distant land!

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin

Author & President

Refueling in Flight Ministries, Inc