Goodness Gracious

Have you ever responded to an incident or some one's statement with the words of the title? Usually this response expresses either a pleasant surprise or a shocking unpleasant revelation. In the first case we recognize something good that has happened. This good thing may have been an unexpected act of kindness, the receipt of some good news, or possibly an unexpected material blessing. In the second case we are expressing our dismay. Perhaps we have heard of a new atrocity in the news, an unexpected turn of personal events or the personal downfall of a friend or acquaintance.

Obviously, we prefer to hear those words in a positive framework. So do others. When we hear someone say "goodness gracious" in response to something we have said or done, is it because we have been good and gracious or because we have failed in that area? We are encouraged in the Bible to let our light shine in such a way that people will see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven. In order to do that we must communicate goodness and grace to others.

Today strive to do and say those things that will cause the positive "goodness gracious" to come from those around us. We will know that they have been blessed and as a result we will be blessed as well.