But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.
— Hebrews 3:13
At age 16, Andor Foldes was already a skilled Hungarian pianist. But he was experiencing a troubled year. And in the midst of his personal struggles, one of the most renowned pianists of the day, Emil von Sauer, came to Budapest.
Emil von Sauer was famous not only for his abilities; he was also the last surviving pupil of the great Franz Liszt, who learned from none other than Beethoven himself. So he requested on one occasion that Foldes play for him. Foldes obliged by playing some of the most difficult works of Bach and Beethoven.
When Foldes was finished, von Sauer walked over to him and kissed him on the forehead. “My son,” he said, “when I was your age, Liszt kissed me on the forehead and said, ‘Take good care of this kiss—it comes from Beethoven, who gave it to me after hearing me play.’ I have waited for years to pass on this sacred heritage, but now I feel you deserve it.”
Foldes overcame his struggles and went on to be one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century, due in large part to the encouragement he received from such a distinguished mentor.
It’s amazing the impact an encouraging word or act can have on another’s life. So make the investment of encouragement to others in your life—especially to those who are younger—and watch as your investment pays off!
Prayer Challenge
Ask God to help you be a force for encouragement in others’ lives.
Questions for Thought
How does it make you feel when others encourage you with their words and actions?
Who are some people you can help today with a simple word or act of encouragement?