Be An Encourager

Friday was a great day.  So many of you commented and wrote such encouraging words about this simple little blog.  I really wasn’t asking for pats on the back in your comments – just a “Hey, I love that National Peach Ice cream Day is coming up!  Think I’ll pull out the freezer and make some.”  You, know, just comments.  

But you know what?  Your encouraging words were a blessing to me.  As I stated in my comment on Friday, it does get lonely on this side of the computer sometimes.  I find myself wondering if there’s anyone out there really reading.  So I must say you thank you.  It’s good to know that you like the variety and are refreshed when you stop by here.

You know, encouraging words are something everyone needs to hear.  We all tend to wonder if what we’re doing is really useful.  Do you, Mom, ever wonder if you’re making a difference in the lives of your children?  We don’t expect them to come up and encourage us on the road of motherhood, but a word from an onlooker can go a long way to keep your spirits up, can’t it?  Think back to a time when someone encouraged you.  Hopefully it wasn’t too long ago, but even if it was, remember what it did for you.  Perhaps it gave you what you needed to keep doing right.  Maybe it kept you in your marriage.  Did it propel you into following God’s will – even though it seemed like a difficult calling?  In a time of sickness, those encouraging words may have reminded you that you’re not alone. 

I recently taught my Sunday school children about Barnabas.  His name was Joseph, but the disciples changed his name to Barnabas – son of encouragement.  All through the Scriptures we find Barnabas with that wonderful characteristic pouring out of his life.  He believed in Paul when the rest of the disciples were skeptical.  He came alongside John Mark when Paul preferred not travel with him.  What a blessing a person like Barnabas is!

We all appreciate encouragement from people like ol’ Barn, but are we encouragers too?  Some people are far better at being Eeyore’s.  You know – they carry the rain cloud over their head and are happy to share their stormy day with anyone who gets near them.  Let’s ask the Lord for someone with whom we could share encouragement today.  Don’t delay when the Lord shows you someone.  Do something for them now before the moment passes, before the burden subsides.  They need you, just like I did on Friday!  Do it, Barnabas!  Do it!

Thankful for each of you,