“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” (Proverbs 12:25, NIV)
As the channels of the Good News, we live in a “target-rich environment.” That is to say, a disciple of Jesus has ample opportunity to cheer others because most people are ridden with anxiety.
If all we knew was what we read in the newspaper, see on the television, hear on the radio, or read online, we would be anxious about the condition of our food; the safety of public transport; the performance of our educational institutions; the viability of the economy; and the prospects for the future. These are but a few of the anxieties that “weigh down the heart.”
A kind word in such an environment is always welcome. Will you choose to be the candle in the darkness; the cool drink of water in the desert; the smile in a sea of frowns? – Luther
