There are so many things in this life that can discourage us and make us anxious. How powerful can the friendly words of a wise person be in such a time—not to take our problems away, but to give us strength to face them. Think of Jonathan’s encouragement to his persecuted friend David. He “helped him find strength in God” and told him, “Don’t be afraid” (1 Samuel 23:16–17).
It can also be helpful for us to store up some encouraging verses from the Bible in our memory, so that we will be able to speak God’s truth to our friends in times when they need encouragement.
25 Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.