Last week my church finished up a series about our “blind spots.” For four weeks the pastors had spoken about the people we tend to miss when we look around, the people we forget about, the people who just might need our love most of all. The pastor suggested we channel a little Sherlock Holmes as we go about our day to figure out who might need an extra smile or word of encouragement.
If you use a little deductive reasoning (or is it actually “inductive reasoning”? I could never keep those two straight.), you might start noticing that you encounter lots of people who are desperate for a kind word or listening ear.
You can share encouragement in so many ways:
Smiling at the grumpy cashier.
Looking your kids in the eyes and asking how their day went – and then listening.
Thanking your husband for grilling dinner or putting in another long day at work.
Giving your waitress a generous tip, even if she didn’t keep your glass filled to the brim.
Buying Starbucks for your assistant or your boss or your children’s teacher.
Telling the janitor or trash man or landscaper that you appreciate his work.
Sending your parents a letter or calling them just to say hello.
Holding open the door.
Raking your neighbors’ leaves or shoveling their sidewalk.
Or – sending a card with a thoughtful word, a kind sentiment, a piece of encouragement.
I love the card selection at DaySpring. You can find beautiful cards for just about any occasion or need. Whether you need a thinking of you card, a sympathy card, a you can do it card, an I love you card, a you’re my favorite person card or a get well soon card – DaySpring has you covered.
Is it possible that you know a person – or several people – who could use some encouragement? Whose day would be made by hearing that you think they’re great? Whose life might be changed by a reminder that you believe in them?
Who can you encourage today?
If you’re sharing an (in)spired deals story post this month, link up below!
Yes!
And I love these 18 ways to comfort a sick friend –
http://creeksideministries.blogspot.com/2008/09/19-ways-to-comfort-sick-friend.html
mmm … and you wouldn’t even have to be feeling punky to enjoy some of these beautiful gifts of love!
Great post! When we give we receive so much more.
I always try to encourage people–I believe that is my calling from God. Maybe it’s an e-card saying I love you or calling dad to say “hi, how are you?” I have been known to go by job sites and say ” looks good” “keep up the good work”.
I especially like to thank my housekeeper, janitors at work & all the “little people”. They just might need a quick pick me up after a tough day cleaning.
There are times when you need a pick me up & God will send someone your way!
Thanks for the suggestions!
Thank you for this story. I am a firm believer of encouraging not just believers but all who come my way. I believe we all need a word of encouragement and so do many others who may not even know how they can do this. When we encourage someone we open a window of fresh air to their life that can open a window to someone else. Words of life is what the world needs today. Words of encouragement can do so much more than a gift in a box. When we take time to send an email, write on facebook, text, or a phone call we have the platform to make someone’s day with words of encouragement. I do a woman’s newsletter bi-monthly and have a special place for “WORDS OF LIFE” because you never know if the person on the receiving side needs to hear something to help their day or life.
[…] Don’t worry there are plenty of ‘grown-up’ versions as well but these U-NEEKS put not only a smile on my friend’s face but also on mine when I send them out. I’ve got lots of plans for the rest but I hope I never have to use the feel better ones. You can see what others are saying about the new line of encouraging cards from Dayspring over at (in)courage. […]