Be encouraged and be an encourager is basically what the Apostle Paul was telling the Thessalonians. “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11. Personally, once recognized, I can’t understand why anyone would enjoy spending time with someone who consistently discourages. Do you? Yet, many do “hang out” with these type of people.
I can understand, however how one can can caught up in such a dilemma without really noticing it. It happened to me, but one day a terrific friend of mine took me by the side and offered me a sketch of my life that I hadn’t considered. As she brought forth situations and examples of past conversations at various events of a specific couple I hung out with, I became aware of the negativity, discouragement and offensiveness that proceeded from these folks.
In love and respect she advised me to reconsider the choice of “friends” and to be careful that I could also be considered a discourager. Later as I rewound and digested what she told me it became clear that she was right. Since that revelation I have tried to become more conscientious of others and more sensitive to their needs for encouragement.
There are times I long for an encouraging word, and I usually get it from my dear friends who are sensitive to my being and know when I need it. These are valuable and precious friends and supporters and encouragers in the faith. Their cards, text messages, calls come at the most needed times and I am refreshed and heartened to keep going, to hope and trust and not give up!
“Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone. See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to all people. Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:14-16
Although that advice was written years ago, it is apropos today. We must not forget to count on God’s help. It is there for the taking. Our life as Christians is to be lived not through our own strength and wherewithal but through God’s Almighty Power! That certainly makes all the difference!
ritasalomon 