Encouraging Others
I was at a memorial service on Sunday afternoon for a person I knew who recently passed away. As I was sitting there listening to all the wonderful things that were being said about her and her family I thought to myself, what did I do for this mom of two who had struggled for the last couple years with cancer? Could I have done more?
She wasn't someone I saw often. In fact I rarely ever saw her or her husband unless we would meet unrepentantly in the store. A couple times they had come to visit my church for a special occasion. A few times I saw them at some event the family had invited them to since they were actually related to my in-laws.
This made me think how do we choose our friends and how close should we be to everyone that we meet? Is there something that God wants us to do for these especially if they are struggling or dealing with problems or disease? Perhaps we should be more encouraging to others we meet.
We all know people like this. Those who are fighting a sickness or are in pain. The trials people endure may not be just from physical difficulties but may also stem from problems with alcohol, drugs or emotional upheavals due to some unexpected event in ones life. Maybe you are facing difficulties now and can relate to this very issue. Personally I know that dealing with such trials are draining and help or encouragement from a friend or someone you know can be of real value.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as in fact you are doing."
Take a look at your relationship with others. Evaluate what you might be able to do to help one or more of them in a subtle but special way. Perhaps a card in the mail to let them know you are thinking of them is all they need. Maybe more action is needed to help them get back on their feet. For instance after a surgery or illness a meal or frequent visits could really be a step of faith that you need to do not only for the person in need but for yourself as well.
As we help others we also receive blessing. I know that God will guide and direct you to do whatever you can to touch the lives of others. In your daily prayer and devotion time – This is the first thing God wants you to do – ask the question. Who do I need to reach out to. How can I be encouraging to others?
Ephesians 4:29 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. "
Everyone is blessed to be a part of this world which God created. But not everyone can see and enjoy the blessings of others. Be the person God is asking you to be and make a difference in someone's life today.
What can I do for God today?
Reach out to someone in need – Send a card – Encourage others – Prepare a meal – Make contact with someone you know in an attempt for a closer relationship. All of these are an encouragement and will help to lift the spirit of those around you.