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Key Bible Verse: It is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time! (Proverbs 15:23).
Bonus Reading: Deuteronomy 3:28; Ephesians 4:29

When people in his community speak with Pastor Larry, they can't help feeling better about themselves. But the community has deteriorated as markets shifted. Many left for better jobs and were replaced by transient families with lesser skills. Schools and stores changed overnight. Larry, an African-American, felt alienated in a community that once embraced his encouragement. He was ready to throw in the towel.

Then an elderly woman named Pearl visited Pastor Larry's office. "I've watched you for nearly ten years, consoling, shepherding, and ministering to this community. You've been an encouragement to everyone."

"Then why are so many leaving and being replaced by individuals hostile to God's Word?" Larry countered.

Pearl said, "God's brought them for you to grow in your ministry. I believe God gifted you with an encouraging heart for a time such as this."

Larry thanked Pearl for her honesty, then excused himself to go home. As he approached his house, a family of three greeted him. "Thank you, Pastor," said the father. "We've been to three other cities but never really felt at home 'til we arrived here."

—David Farr in God's Man

Lord, bring to mind an encourager whom I can encourage.

If I had my ministry over again, I would devote far more time to the ministry of comfort and encouragement.

—F. B. Meyer (British preacher, 20th century)

Adapted from: God's Man (Kregel, 1998).

For your convenience, God's Man is available in the ChristianityToday.com bookstore.

Copyright © 2001 by the author or Christianity Today, Inc./Men of Integrity magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Lord, move me beyond preoccupation with myself to affirming and bolstering others.

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