Encouragement is a Blessing

I had always been an encourager. For most of my life, I tried to see the good in others. When life failed in some way, I looked for the silver lining. What could I learn from this situation? What is this experience teaching me?

Later in life, I struggled with doubt. Filled with pride, I wanted to share my stories with others so as to bless them. Facing the truth, I realized my pride was in the way. How could I encourage another or share my story when my pride was standing next to me?

Letting go of pride and self-control takes time. Valuable lessons are taught to us and revealed to us through the work of the Holy Spirit. God led me through the valleys and opened my eyes. Changing my perspective on why I wanted to encourage others. Was I trying to change them? Was I being judgmental?

These are hard lessons. For you cannot change people, and being judgmental will create prejudicial attitudes. Asking myself real hard truths, what were my motives.

Fast forward to today. I now see the lessons that life teaches. Being humble is a constant prayer. Leaving all the judgment on the table, for that is not my responsibility. Encouragement is a blessing. To be encouraged gives life meaning. Receiving encouragement from a friend strengthens your relationship. Believing in another fills them with thankfulness.

To be an encourager gives your soul life. It breathes comfort into your heart and leads you towards compassion to others.

Be an encourager, give another an honest compliment, restore a relationship, and let God provide the healing and blessing. For what everyone really wants, is just to be loved.