Wednesday, September 22, 2010

The Power of Encouragement

Good morning, dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! There is a definite touch of fall in the air these days, The morning temp. is down in the seventies although it's expected to zoom to the nineties this afternoon, but the cool morning air feel wonderful. Also the acorns are falling and that is not so wonderful. Good for the squirrels, bad for stepping on, on the porch and sidewalk. A small price to pay for cooler weather.

Yesterday, I had a long walk in Walmart. I don't go out there very often these days, but when I really want to save money, that is definitely the place to go. Surprisingly, it was not crowded, and except for a small child who had an ear-piercing scream and seemed to be screaming for the sheer joy of it, it was pleasant shopping. Not a pleasure like Publix, but pleasant. I got my Dan-Active yogurt there for 3.83 and it is 4.89 at Publix. So that's a savings!

Then I went to the park, and enjoyed the peace and quiet there, after the screaming. Nothing but the trees and moss swaying in the breeze and squirrels scampering, and the flock of ibis gathered on the hills, pecking away. God is good!

From the devotional book Knowing God:

Patience and encouragement come from God. And I pray that God will help you all agree with each other the way Christ Jesus wants. Romans 15:5 NCV

Here's a question only you can answer. During a typical day, how many opportunities will you have to encourage other human beings? Unless you're living on a deserted island, the answer is "a lot!" and here's a follow-up question; How often do you take advantage of those opportunities? Hopefully, the answer is "more often than not."

Romans 14:19 advises us to "Pursue what promotes peace and what builds up one another" (HCSB) And whenever we do, God smiles.

Whether you realize it or not, you're surrounded by people who need an encouraging word, a helping hand, or a pat on the back. And every time you encourage one of these folks, you'll be doing God's will by obeying God's word. So, without further ado, let the encouragement begin.

I can usually sense that a leading is from the Holy Spirit when it calls me to humble myself, to serve somebody, to encourage somebody or to give something away. Very rarely will the evil one lead us to do those kind of things
-Bill Hybels

Todays Prayer-
Lord, make us mindful of our words. This world can be a difficult place and many of Your children are discouraged and afraid.
Make each member of our family a powerful source of encouragement to those in need, and let our words and deeds be worthy of Your Son, the One who gives us courage and strength, this day and for all eternity.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis