When Words Change Someone and You Don’t Even Know It

Dr. John Townsend shared a powerful story of words. What was magical about this incident was how accidental it was. He didn’t plan it. It wasn’t intentional. It wasn’t designed to make a life-changing impact. Here’s a paraphrase of his elevator story:

Years ago, I was riding an elevator with one of my employees.. he was an IT guy in our tech department.. and I also noticed that he was really good with people, he listened well and he empathized.. so in that 12 seconds, from the fourth floor to the first floor, I said, “by the way, I noticed how good you are with people, and I know you’re just a tech guy.. you ought to think about being a counselor, you’re so good..” Eh, okay, have a nice day.

About 5 years later, I’m at a party and we see each other, and he tells me, “well, I’m a Christian counselor, and I love what I do.. and I just want to thank you.. because when we were the elevator and you told me [about being a Christian counselor].. when I went to lunch I couldn’t get it out of my head..”

.. it was a one-off.. it was just a throw away [comment].. you have no idea the power of affirming each other..

Proverbs 16:24 says— Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

Words of Affirmation are Powerful

Dr. John Townsend spoke from his book, “People Fuel: Fill Your Tank for Life, Love, and Leadership,” at Saddleback Church in July 2019. The elevator story comes at ~ 59:00 time marker—watch the video at Facebook

People Fuel: God’s Promises For Energy, Positivity, And Resilience

Dr. John Townsend is speaking on "People Fuel: God’s Promises For Energy, Positivity, And Resilience” this week at Saddleback Church. As you are watching the live service, think of one person who needs to hear it. Hit the share button to send them a link of the service. Get access to Dr. Townsend's message notes and more at saddleback.com/visit/locations/onlinecampus

Posted by Saddleback Church on Sunday, July 28, 2019

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