Mark Twain once intoned that “the difference between
the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning
and a lightning bug.” Bible teachers and preachers also know the
importance and power of words. Indeed it is our stock-in-trade. But for some it
is easier to turn a phrase in a sermon than it is to produce a timely word in a
more personal setting. For those who struggle to find the perfect word on such
occasions, Liz Duckworth has provided some help. Her brief, easy-to-read book APerfect Word for Every Occasion supplies practical suggestions for finding
just the right word for most commonly occurring occasions. The occasions
addressed in this work include grief, gratitude, sickness, suffering,
birthdays, weddings, engagements, encouragements related to personal setbacks,
celebrations, events, activities, words of truth and love (i.e., apologies,
confrontations, etc.), and even a section devoted to using the right words in cyberspace.
Each section typically includes guidelines for finding the right words, prompts
to help you begin, words to make your own, a guide of what not to say, and
quotes worth sharing. In general the author does a good job helping one find
“apples of silver” (Prov 25:11). Not all the suggestions here are original, but
even the familiar expressions seem to be appropriately chosen. At the end of
the day, one has to own their own words for them to be authentic, but the
author has given tangible assistance to those who are looking for the perfect
word, or at least a better word, for those day-to-day opportunities to minister
through one’s words. A free review copy of this book was provided by Bethany House Publishers.
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