While considering words that bless and encourage children (and adults), we keep in mind that such blessing goes beyond words to the actions that enhance their well-being.

We see pronouncing blessings modeled by God in words to Isaac, "I will be with you, and will bless you." Isaac in turn passes the blessing to his sons," By faith Isaac invoked future blessings on Jacob and Esau." Hebrews 11:20

Ask yourself, when you are with a child, do you look that child in the eye and warmly bless them with words? Words such as:

• I love you more than I love my own next breath.
• You are remarkable.
• I am so proud of you.
• You are amazing.
• I love being with you.
• Your ideas are a wow to me.
• May you always know who you and who God is.
• May the Lord bless you and keep you.
• God loves you.

Use words of encouragement that communicate love, value and strength and remind them of God's love.

As God said to Jesus, "This is my beloved son with whom I am well pleased," so we in turn say to the people in our lives, "You are loved and I so appreciate you!"