Do you know someone who is tired, sad, depressed, over-worked, uncertain, in pain, or basically in need of support? Have you ever experienced any of these mental, emotional, or physical dark moments in your life?
My guess is that I am not the Lone Ranger who has quietly shed a tear of sadness or disappointment in the middle of the night. Life is not a plate of cream puffs. Many days thorns and thistles poke holes in our outward appearance of calm, peace, and in total control.
During those moments of silence or public distress, a smile, touch, listening ear, or even a cup of tea or chocolate shake has the potential of bringing a moment of peace and calm to a hurting person.
Two humans may share challenges and/or provide encouragement to one another. An oral prayer, a hug, or word of support, demonstrate you care and want to share God’s love with another individual.
Go about doing good. Take brownies or your favorite casserole to an overworked Mom. Walk in the park with a neighbor experiencing stress at work. Load the neighbor kids into your car and then wander through the zoo, letting their parents have a few hours of breathing time or even an opportunity to give each other a hug. Perhaps there is a widow or teen needing a friend, a warm hand, or a loud cheer of support. It’s time to step up.
The world needs Encouragers. Keep your eyes open for an opportunity to help prod someone along or even give a gentle kick in the pants. Yes, there is a risk of misunderstanding, but the chance of helping a friend out of the doldrums is worth it. Christians can be wonderful representatives of the Lord and His desire for all to worship and serve Him.
We close with admonitions from Ecclesiastes, and the wise words of Solomon, in support of becoming “An Encourager”. “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
Kathryn Ransom 