The power of encouragement is
often forgotten or overlooked. There are too few encouragers left in our world
today. Everyone is so stressed out and focused on their life and issues that we
forget to bless one another with kind words.
We take each other for granted,
even our spouse. We even fail to complement our self. To many people, this is a
foreign concept that they never considered doing.
Congratulate yourself when you
perform a job well done, encourage yourself when you do your best - even if it
turns out not being good enough for others, and forgive yourself when you make
an honest mistake.
When we encourage, we do not use
flattering words, but use honest and genuine compliments. We can mention actions
as well as character.
A person of integrity, warmth,
kindness, generosity and spirituality needs encouragement separate from their talents
and actions; so they know we appreciate them, not just what they do for us.
Giving hugs is also a great form
of encouragement if the other person likes hugs. We can give our self a big hug
and pat on the back as well. We do not have to depend on others to bless us.
Reading God's Word gives us many
words of encouragement as we read what God thinks of His children, His bride
and His Saints. Other tools for encouragement
are: writing notes, a quick email, and short phone call and a small gift for no
reason.
Buy from family or friends who
are attempting to earn extra money by selling their crafts or downsizing their
home. Offer to babysit so a couple can have some time alone together. Read to
the children at the local library or school.
We can show appreciation to our
self and others when we go the extra mile to help someone in their time of
need, or stay late at work to help a coworker meet a deadline, or spend extra
time with the children and grandchildren interacting in person and not just
sending money or buying gifts.
These are all simple ways we can
give back to our family, friends and community and be an encouragement in the
name of Christ. We give one another that little extra boost we need to make it
through the day.
Prayer:
Father God, Your Word is a lamp
for our feet and a light for our path (Psalm 119:105). It not only illuminates
the ground around us, but also shines a specific and detailed light right in
front of us as we walk through this life. Thank You for keeping us from stumbling
and helping us to light the way for those who are walking with or just behind
us as well.
Show us specific ways to be more
encouraging to our self and others. Remind us to look our loved ones in the
eyes, and also to look at our eyes in the mirror when we give an honest
compliment. Inspire us with what to say, so we do not say the same thing over
and over; but vary our topic and words, so it is more meaningful.
Thought for the Day:
Encouragement takes on many forms
and we can experiment with what we are most comfortable using; the idea here is
to encourage, regardless of the method, style or words we use; and to help our own
soul as well, when we acknowledge our efforts and hard work.
