May 16, 2011

Encouragement Part 2

The Bible says "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" (Galatians 6:9). And I think one of the biggest causes of becoming weary in our labors for the Lord, is when we think we aren't really making a difference. That's why it's good to have a place to record the stories of life change. It could be an email folder in your inbox, a manilla folder in your filing cabinet, etc. Just make sure you're collecting the thank you notes and praise reports. And when things get tough and you feel worn out, you pull them out and read them. Here's some I'm filing in my email folder that I just received today. 
  • Your prayer, along with the prayers of our growth group have re-shaped our son's life. he has lost his depression and given his life to Christ. 
  • I praise God for this church which has kept me on fire for my savior while going through my freshman year of college. You will be in my prayers during the summer months. 
  • There was a woman at my work who had been giving me a hard time for almost two years. In my heart, I prayed for her and forgave her for what she had been doing. I treated her kindly and fair. Just last week something changed in her heart and she has been very kind and respectful towards me. 
There is nothing quite like knowing that lives are changing around you and that you've played a part in it (even in a small way). Nothing will get you motivated and encourage you to keep working than knowing you are making a difference for eternity. 

Encouragement

It is wonderful to be on the receiving end of encouragement. Just this morning I got a text from someone in our church that read "You do such an awesome job bringing the best messages to us!!" I am literally having trouble describing the good it did me to hear those words of encouragement. The best I can do is say it brought me life! It inspired me to keep working hard, it boosted my self-esteem, it gave me energy, it made me happy, I felt appreciated. All that from twelve words of encouragement! Wow, the Bible is right when it says "The tongue has the power of life and death..." (Proverbs 18:21). I hope that each day I can say something to someone else that lifts them up the way I've been lifted up today. Here's a good principle to live by when it comes to encouragement: If you think it, say it. If you think someone looks nice, say so. If you think someone is doing a great job, tell them. As long as it's positive and will build someone up, if you think it, say it.