You’re having a bad day or a tough week, and it seems lately that if anything could go wrong, it has. You’re checking out at the grocery store, and the person behind you hits you with their cart. Do they apologize? No! Inside you want to scream, but instead you just smile and go on about your business. While you’re checking out the cashier says, “I saw what happened. I’m really impressed you kept your cool. You’re always such a pleasure. I hope I can be more like you.” Suddenly, things don’t seem so bad after all. A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver (Proverbs 25:11 ESV). One kind word, one word of encouragement, or one nugget of truth wrapped in love and concern can change someone’s life. It’s not difficult and costs us nothing, and it’s possible for us all to do. We may think others know how we feel, but do they? How many words do we speak in a day that profit no one? Encourage, love, and speak words of life to those you meet. You just might be the best thing that’s happened to them all day. Speak the truth in love—and shine.