A man was invited to the home of some friends for dinner.  The food was wonderful – except for the apple pie.  It wasn’t terrible, but it just didn’t measure up to the rest of the meal.  Even so, the guest went out of his way to find some good things to say about the pie.

Later, the man visited the home again and stayed for dinner.  On this occasion, the meal was topped off with a cherry pie that was absolutely delicious.  But the visitor didn’t say one word about it.  This really bothered the hostess, so she finally blurted out, “I don’t understand.  The last time you were here, I served a pie that I was ashamed of, yet you were very complimentary.  Tonight I’ve given you what I think is the best pie I’ve ever made, and you haven’t said a word about it.”

The man smiled and replied, “Let me tell you why.  I agree that the cherry pie tonight was fantastic and that the apple pie you served last time was not as good as this one.  But, you see, it needed the praise!”

It’s funny that we also read in God’s Word, “A word spoken at the right time is like gold apples on a silver tray.” (Proverbs 25:11)

Several weeks ago I challenged you to encourage others.  We are all getting beaten up by life – and by others – each and every day.  Let’s be bearers of Good News – for it is Good News that changes things.

You are loved!  And I’m praying for you!