Be An Encourager

This topic came up in a recent devotional reading and I was reminded how very important we can be as encouragers to one another! Who do you know that needs some encouragement today? Who do you know that doesn't? We all appreciate a kind word of encouragement from time to time and, you never know, but those words and that action may just make a life-long difference. Years ago I read The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron and that was the first time I ever gave deliberate, conscious attention to identifying those confidence "robbers" that I had known in my life; it may have been a long-ago teacher or even an elementary classmate who stole a piece of my spirit through criticism or plain old meanness. In contrast to the thieves were those who built me up with a kind, encouraging word or a pat on the back. It doesn't take a genius to learn, at an early age, who we'd rather associate with: those who affirm us; and what a difference those encouragers can make! I have a crystal-clear memory of a friend, now living in her Heavenly Home, who asked me one time if there was anything that I couldn't do well. I was so surprised by her question, and so flattered by her encouragement, that I was speechless. Of course there are things, MANY in fact, that I struggle to accomplish even half-way; but that day, after her encouragement, I felt like I could tackle anything at all, she empowered me through faith, love and a few kind words of encouragement! I have since shared this moment with her grown daughters, it truly meant the world to me; it still does. She fed my spirit and my soul at that moment with sincere encouragement. How can I do that for others? I think back to when I was a young mother and always wanted the best for my children (again, who doesn't?) and wonder if I wasn't too harsh, too critical and may have discouraged more than encouraged, in my nudging of them. I hope not, only they know for sure. But one thing I do know is that I can be that encourager today for my grandchildren, my husband, friends, family, and those whom I encounter each and every day.

 "...if we are faithless he remains faithful-- for he cannot deny himself. Remind them of this, and charge them before the Lord to avoid disputing about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers.  Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2: 13-15

Be an encourager, I am trying,  

I know for certain it can make all the difference!

Life is Good!