I dropped by a friend’s office recently to say hello. I found her staring at the computer screen with such intensity she didn’t even know I was there. After a couple of minutes of quietly waiting and watching I said, ‘Hey, what’s going on?’ Her head popped up and she replied, ‘Hi there.’ And then it spilled out, ‘I’m so frustrated.’
After a sweet exchange of pleasantries we spent a few minutes talking about all the things that were impacting her life. Before I knew it we were talking about a lot more than frustrations. Between work and home, her ‘plate’ was full of issues that were stealing her joy and draining her energy. And, she could not seem to find her way out of the darkness and into the light.
The secular world makes it so easy to get caught up in the negative day-to-day struggles and forget the many positives we have to be thankful for. As her friend I had to assess the situation quickly, and start to work encouraging her and building her confidence. God’s word in 1 Thessalonians 5:11 tells us:
‘Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.’
I believe that with my whole heart. I have been blessed so many times by others. Sometimes it was a quick phone call, an email or text, a card in the mail, or spoken words that reminded me I was worthy of so much more than the messes or burdens that life throws us.
Tweet ThisEncouraging others is a blessing. It could be your calling card. You could be the motivator, the cheerful giver, the good friend, or the high point to someone’s day. It’s so much more meaningful to be the ray of sunshine than the cloud of doom and gloom.
Now the visit with my friend didn’t take away the negatives she was dealing with, but it did give her a sounding board and listening ear to sort through things.
People need to know they matter. So tell those around you what they mean to you. Specifically list qualities and strengths you appreciate about them. Remind them that even in the midst of trials and tribulations, God is in control. Above all, give thanks to your Heavenly Father for all of the gifts He has blessed you with.
Here are 8 simple ways to bless your friends and build meaningful relationships.
As we look to the week ahead think about how you could be a source of joy and strength for others. Be a reflection of God’s love and be a constant source of encouragement for those around you. His presence gives us all the love and assurance we need to cheer for those who need it most. I’ll be praying for you.
Blessings & Hugs!
I find that it is so important to keep connected with others and help meet their needs if they are willing to open up. I have a friend who recently went through cancer surgery. She is very fearful and seems to isolate herself from friends due to conflict with her e-husband. I assured her in e-mails that I would visit her and enjoy time together. She is still not open to seeing anyone due to her appearance, but I will keep praying for her and hope to give her hope during her treatments.