The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life... Proverbs 15:4

"Mom, we broke up," I sobbed into the telephone. I felt as though my heart would come out of my chest as I waited for my mother's response. I was working at a Christian summer camp, located two hours from home. Through the teaching and friendships, I realized my relationship with my unsaved boyfriend was wrong. We had dated a long time, but he just couldn't understand why my relationship to Christ was all about. I knew our relationship was wrong but I never had the courage to break it off until I was surrounded by other strong believers. Yet, as I remember his tears and mine, I wondered if I had done the right thing.

Although that call was the first of many long, long distance conversations, my mother always listened patiently and never reminded me that this was "costing money." I really don't remember what she said to me; but I do remember, 25 years later, that her willingness to listen made me feel loved and understood.

Sometimes the most important words we can share are no words at all. The ministry God wants us to have is a ministry of the heart - an attitude that says, "This is important to you so it's important to me." How much wiser it is to say, "I know you're hurting and I'm sorry," by our willingness to listen than to say, "Look, I know you're upset, but you'll get over it!" Which words do you want to hear when you're in pain? Which message do you give?

"Sometimes, Lord, I get impatient with those who are hurting. I see so clearly how they could relieve their pain but they don't seem to want to hear it. Give me the wisdom to know when to be quiet and the wisdom to know when to speak - if ever."

(Reprinted with permission from Encouragement Stories by Sharon W. Betters,published 1993.)