Thought for the Day – Wednesday 24th June 2020
Bible reading : Ephesians 6 v 4.
“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”
Benjamin West was just trying to be a good babysitter for his little sister Sally. While his mother was out, he found some bottles of coloured ink and proceeded to paint Sally’s portrait. But by the time Mrs. West returned, ink blots stained the table, chairs and the floor.
Benjamin’s mother surveyed the mess without a word until she saw the picture. Picking it up she exclaimed, “Why it’s Sally!” And she bent down and kissed her young son.
In 1763, when he was 25 years old, Benjamin West was selected as history painter to King George 111. He became one of the most celebrated artists of his day. Commenting on his start as an artist, he said, “My mother’s kiss made me a painter.”
What a challenge to raise our children according to God’s standards, knowing when to say, “It’s a mess!” and when to say, “Why, it’s Sally!” Correction does much; Encouragement does more.
Well done! Eight letters, two little words, but they can be very powerful words. Think about spectators along the path of a marathon shouting “Well done” at the runners. They are encouraging the runners to keep going when they are probably exhausted. A teacher, parent or carer saying “What a beautiful picture” to a child who has been trying hard and really concentrating on his or her work. Even when we can’t always see exactly what the finished product is, words of encouragement can do so much good.
Give thanks to God for all the hard work and care being shown during lock-down and “Well done” to all of you who are encouraging those who may be tired or stressed to keep going.
God bless, Anna.
