Posted on July 12, 2023

Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

Proverbs 16:24

What is the best compliment you’ve ever received? I’ve asked several people this question over the years. Some people make a joke about getting so many compliments that it’s hard to choose just one. Others answer that they can’t think of a best compliment. My favorite response is when someone’s face lights up with a memory of words that are so dear to them, they’ve been tucked away in their heart for safe keeping.

I love to hear stories of the people whose words have had such an impact. It makes me happy when people can be open to receive kindly given words. All too often we are uncomfortable with compliments. Before the words have had a chance to sink in and be a blessing they are denied or discarded, instead of being graciously accepted as the gift they were intended to be. When we do this, we not only miss out on the blessing, but we have also taken away the joy of the person speaking to us. A compliment graciously received becomes a gift in return.

My best compliment was given to me by my boyfriend. He said that I make everywhere and everyone better.

Take a moment and think about what your answer would be to this question, then be brave and write it in the comment section. For extra credit, think about the possibilities of how you could give someone the best compliment they’ve ever received. Let your words be a gift.

Encouraging words

Are seeds that sprout joy and hope

Making souls blossom