Better Words, Better Actions: PraiseLive's 30 Day DevotionalSample

Bored at home during the pandemic shutdown, my teenage daughter discovered a new thrill. Instead of taking her large dog for walks, she let him race for miles throughout the neighborhood while pulling her on a longboard. Despite my warnings about safety, proper helmet use, and common sense, I could not temper her zeal for such excitement.

One day while I was doing yard work, an older couple came walking down the street and recognized the unkempt Goldendoodle at my side as the one who often gallivanted past their home, about half a mile away. I confirmed it was my daughter, who looks nothing like me, who was careening nearly at break-neck speeds. They expressed amazement at her ability to balance and steer, never questioning my competence as a parent that I would allow such risky behavior.  

We continued a loud conversation, due to required social distancing, for a good fifteen minutes or more. Soon they disclosed they have a daughter, too, who was adopted internationally, as well as a child with special needs, though both are grown now. In moments, we discovered a myriad of parenting experiences we had in common as they shared timely words of understanding and encouragement. It was no surprise to find out they were believers; their sensitivity, compassion, and kindness were evident. When they continued on their way, I returned to my gardening with new energy, grateful for a simple, spontaneous interaction that fueled my hope as a parent and made friends out of strangers.

Reflection Question:

What is keeping me from disclosing how Jesus has helped me in the past?

Praise + Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you for trusting us to love our neighbors through words of encouragement. Help us set aside our insecurities, our fear of judgment, and our worry of being misunderstood, so we can speak words of life to those who need to hear them. Amen.

Action Idea:

Ask the Lord to show you one person who may need encouragement or hope today and follow His lead. Remember that people’s needs are not always distinct. Trust Him to direct you to the one who needs Him.