Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 3:00 — )
PROGRAM D-8101
If you counted the number of times during your day that you heard a “discouraging word” and then counted the “encouraging words” that came your way, which do you think would be larger? I’m sure you’ve noticed that discouragement seems to be at epidemic levels, and it attacks Christians as well anyone else.
Most working environments are flooded with discouragement. Managers and employees alike are very ready to talk about the negative things, but seldom do we hear words of support and encouragement from people with or for whom we work.
Let me ask you a question: What would happen in our working environments if every Christian became an encourager? Do you think people would notice the difference? I’m absolutely convinced that one of our great opportunities for witness is to focus on being an encourager.
We’ve all had days and times in our lives when everything that could go wrong did go wrong. Maybe you had a day recently that was full of discouragement. Your boss was upset, your coworkers were complaining, your family was arguing, and your best friend hurt your feelings. Everything that happened was discouraging!
I remember a day like that not long ago, and by the time I got home I wanted to go to bed and feel sorry for myself! But in my mail that day was a note from a woman that had never written me before. She just wanted to thank me for something, and tell me that she appreciated me.
I re-read the note three times, and then a grin broke out on my face. Before I know it, I was into my projects for the evening with enthusiasm and a lighter spirit. The bad day left my memory, as I thanked God for prompting her to write just when she did. It was just a simple note, but the encouragement had given me a completely new perspective.
That’s what encouragement is—the cure for discouragement, the antidote for dreariness and depression. Think about it: Have you encouraged anyone lately? Why not decide, right now, that today, wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, you will encourage at least one person.