Proverbs 15:23 (NIV)
A man finds joy in giving an apt reply—and how good is a timely word! 

Have you ever been in a funk? Just not feeling it? A little down? A bit discouraged? Ever wonder if anything you are doing is making an impact? Are your kids even listening to what you are saying? Then, right there in the middle of your despair, it comes—through a call, text, email, a hand-written note, or maybe some quick words from your child as they head upstairs or out the door. It changes everything, doesn’t it? A timely word. 

Amazingly, the right words at the right time have the power to change our attitudes instantly. It moves our hearts from gloomy to joyful, our minds from confusion to clarity, and even puts a smile on our faces. The great thing about a timely word is that while it may be delivered from an individual, the author is God. He knows exactly what we need at just the time we need it. Moreover, God loves you so much that sometimes he delivers just what you need to hear. What a great thing to teach our children about God! 

And one more thing. Maybe today, God wants to deliver his message through you. How about brainstorming with your family about who among friends or family could use a little encouragement today. Then—together with your children—make the delivery in person or online. Let them have the experience of being used by the heavenly Father as a divine messenger. That’s an experience they will never forget. 

Father, I pray for two things. First, send encouragement to those who need it. Second, send messengers on “timely word” missions. In Jesus’ name. Amen.