A New Day

By: Pastor Johnie Akers 

Proverbs 15:23, “A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!”  Dante Bartiel Rossetti, the famous 19th-century poet and artist, was once approached by an elderly man. The old fellow had some sketches and drawings that he wanted Rossetti to look at and tell him if they were any good, or if they, at least, showed potential talent.  Rossetti looked them over carefully. After the first few he knew that they were worthless, showing not the least sign of artistic talent. But Rossetti was a kind man and he told the elderly man as gently as possible that the pictures were without much value and showed little talent. He was sorry, but he could not lie to the man.  The visitor was disappointed, but seemed to expect Rossetti’s judgment. He then apologized for taking up Rossetti’s time, but would he just look at a few more drawings—these done by a young art student.  Rossetti looked over the second batch of sketches and immediately enthused over the talent they revealed. “These,” he said, “Ah, these are good. This young man, whoever he is, has great talent. He should be given every help and encouragement in his career as an artist. He has a great future, if he will work hard and stick with it.” Rossetti could see that the old fellow was deeply moved. “Who is this fine young artist?” he asked. “Your son?” “No,” said the old fellow sadly. “It is me—40 years ago. If only I had heard your praise then . . . for you see, I got discouraged and gave up—too soon.”  Notice our Scripture lesson today: “. . . a word spoken in due season, how good is it!”  It is amazing what one word of encouragement can do to bring hope and life.  Words can either lift people up or sadly, tear them down.  I remember, as a child, hearing the little rhyme, “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me.”  That little rhyme is wrong.  Words do hurt.  Sticks and stones may crush a person’s body but words can crush a person’s spirit.  Let us each day purpose in our hearts to only speak words of comfort and life, realizing our words have eternal implication in the lives of others during each new day.