Recently I bought an economy-sized bag of Hall’s cough drops and found a pleasant surprise. As I was about to throw away my Hall’s wrapper, I noticed the words “A Pep Talk in Every Drop” and the following:
- “Don’t waste a precious minute.”
- “You’ve survived tougher.”
- “Don’t give up on yourself.”
- “The show must go on.”
I smiled. What brilliant marketing! What wonderful encouragement! I’m so proud of Hall’s. I will buy Hall’s cough drops just for this reason.
It made me reflect on two questions: Who have I encouraged? Who was the last person who encouraged me?
If a simple cough drop wrapper can make me smile and encourage me, imagine what encouragement precious we can offer someone, even to a stranger.
Encouragement is such a gift. It is even considered to be a “spiritual gift.”
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given us…if it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others; let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him to it cheerfully. “ –Romans 12: 6-8 NIV
A man in the Bible named Barnabas had a knack for encouraging people. In fact, his name means “Son of Encouragement.” (Acts 4:36).
Have you considered smiling at the Target cashier and asking how she is?
Have you thanked your mom and dad for raising you and sacrificing so much for you?
How about complimenting the lady in the Chick-Fil-A with the well-behaved children?
Or what about telling the adorable, little, senior citizen lady in the grocery store how beautiful her scarf is?
It might be the only positive reinforcement or encouragement he/she may get today.
Today is our day to encourage, to be a Barnabas. Be encouraged, friend.
Reflect:
–What is a recent example of someone who encouraged you or who you encouraged? Please comment below.
–How did that encouragement make you feel? Please comment below.
Renew:
–“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” –Romans 15:5 NIV.
–“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” –1 Thessalonians 5:11NIV
PS. Today is also a great day to print out my “Creating Your Personal Mission Statement Template,” which is free by simply adding your email address and subscribing to my bi-weekly blog. My personal mission statement is “Shine,” based on Matthew 5:16.
Danya Jordan