What Really Helps

The words of the reckless pierce like swords,
but the tongue of the wise brings healing.  Proverbs 12:18

Sometimes help is better shown than said. 

When we try to help with our voice, it can be a good thing.  It can also be the opposite.  Because of my profession, I spend a lot of time in committee meetings, gatherings and other conversations.  I have noticed that we spend a lot of time trading divergent opinions, poking holes in others’ ideas and decisions, trying to make everything right, but doing it by pointing out the wrong.

It is easy to spend a lot more time focusing on what is negative, rather than positive; simpler to point out what is wrong rather than what is right.  I have found myself doing it.  What is good needs no fixing. So why mention it?  What is wrong does – in our mind, at least – need to be corrected.  By pointing out this fact we’re just helping, right?  The result of such reasoning, however, is an endless stream of criticism which, because of its own repetitiveness, becomes wearing and ineffective for any good purpose.

A better way to make things right when we think they are wrong?  Volunteer.  Sign up to help.  In far too many of our churches – though I’m sure this is true everywhere – I have heard good people say bad things about programs or groups in which they are not involved.  Rarely are the negative comments helpful.  Even more infrequently does the speaker plan to put in the sweat to make the situation better.

If you want a good dinner, then step into the kitchen.  A kind word goes a long way.  Supportive efforts go even further.  We all see things that need to be corrected.  If you want to see change happen, roll up your sleeves.

Blessed eating!

This recipe has never received a criticism.  Like volunteering, it is easy.

Blond Brownies

(quick and easy)
 
1 lb. brown sugar               4 eggs
2 c. Bisquick                         2 c. chopped pecans
Mix and bake at 350^o for 20-25 minutes – Wyleen Bass Williams