Learn the power of speaking life into those around you

“When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!’”

Luke 1:41-42 (NIV)

When we talk about the Christmas story, we marvel at the strength and obedience of Mary – and we should. But we also need to pay attention to her cousin Elizabeth.

Right after the angel visits Mary, she goes to stay with her cousin Elizabeth. I can only imagine how overwhelmed Mary felt by learning she was going to have the Son of God.

She needed confirmation and encouragement. Right away, that’s exactly what Elizabeth did. She followed the Holy Spirit to encourage Mary.

Sometimes the best thing we can do to help those around us – from our children to our friends – is be the voice of encouragement. When people are facing difficult situations, they need a positive voice reminding them they matter and what they are doing is important.

In just one compound sentence, Elizabeth surely soothed Mary’s heart. Whose heart can you soothe today with kind words of encouragement?

Prayer:

Dear God, I know words are powerful. Thank you for this example of encouragement. Open my eyes today to see those around me who need a positive word from me. Give me the right words. And, if that person is the one I see in the mirror, help me to speak positively to myself. In Jesus’ name, Amen.