16:24 Pleasant words are a honey comb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
Does the mere absence of harsh words make for a satisfying relationship?
There is little doubt, everyone craves relationship. But what exactly meets the need? Is it merely coexisting peacefully with someone, without conflict? I’m sure there’s more to it, because I don’t think any of us is ever attracted to someone else simply because they haven’t hurt us. We don’t treasure a particular relationship because the other simply hasn’t said anything negative to us lately, do we?
Countless stories are told about marriages which have simply dried up, the two drifting apart because they no longer felt in love. No malice, no fighting, but not much else either. Marriages clearly need something positive, beginning with words!
Same with kids. It’s been said often that kids spell love T-I-M-E. But if I’m spending tons of time with my kids yet I’m not building them up with affirmation, we’re just passing the time. They crave positive reinforcement from mom and dad.
Friendships are built with affirmation. Romance is kindled with affirmation. Strangers are welcomed with affirmation. Employees become productive with affirmation.
When folks visit a church for the first time, do we expect them to feel warmly welcomed simply by our lack of condemnation? No, a simple “nice to meet you” is all the affirmation needed to make almost anyone feel welcomed the first time they visit!
Ever heard this on MyChurch - “I never get comments on my blogs, why do I bother writing!” Just a word or two of affirmation makes a world of difference! 18:21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Words are powerful. Not only can they kill a relationship, but they also have the power to breathe life into one as well!!
From my experience, I remember fondly the relationships from which I received ample positive affirmation, while those from which no affirmation was received are either forgotten or are not as warmly remembered. I am also tremendously convicted of the need to increase my efforts in the area of affirmation. With the help of the Holy Spirit I will be reminded to just “get the words out” and daily affirm my greatest treasure on earth, my wife.
To answer the question… “When is silence seen as affirmation?” I’m afraid I’d say never. |
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