I had just started a new job at a cafeteria when I made a mistake.

A BIG one!

I confessed my error, terrified that I would be fired. Fortunately, the head chef had pity on me. He comforted me, told me everyone makes mistakes, and to pay closer attention the next time so I didn’t repeat the blunder.

The assistant chef, one of the most amicable persons to work and talk with in the kitchen, seconded the message: I had messed up, but we wouldn’t dwell on my faults.

Relieved, I went back to work, determined to do better in the future. And I succeeded.

This incident reminds me how important it is to watch what we say and how we say it. It also illustrates the merits of being careful with whom we spend our time. When I am around my friends who are forgiving, optimistic, and positive, I tend to become more forgiving, optimistic, and positive.

God wants us to give words of life, not death, to others.

The next time you feel like criticizing, ask God to give you words of life — faith-filled words. Speak out, telling of what God says, uttering uplifting, encouraging words of life.