"Let us follow afer the things which make for peace, and things with which one may edify another." Romans 14:19
Encouraging the Encouragers - Introduction
Women are fixers; we're naturals.It is in our make up to get it done.Though genetically we desire to care for, fix up and build those in need, we are also genetically - well, usually in a hurry to do so.
Why are we like that?Why is there a need within us to be fixers or 'encouragers'?God's word says -
"Heaviness (anxiety) in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad."Proverbs 12:25 (KJV)
Another way to put that is "An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up."(NIV)- seems like common sense.
I believe, like me, you want those around you, especially those you care for to have a glad heart, one that is not weighed down with troubles and trials.
Not too long ago I had the opportunity to encourage two young women who work at the nursing home that my mother resides at.I had praised them for the good care and attention they gave my mom.One of them responded something like "that's okay-it's my job" while the other, though she looked a bit bewildered, said nothing.I became quite close to these women.I came to respect them for the responsibility that they embrace with each moment of care giving at the center.The weight of it is awesome.I am sure they do not yet understand how important they are.Neither of these two women (to my knowledge) are saved, yet they are doing a gracious work. Could it possibly be that giving them recognition and love will expose them to the grace of God?It seems like such a simple way to obey Him.
God, in his word has instructed the believer to take on certain tasks.To live within a certain character that represents his Son.When we do that; when we obey the Word; when we sacrifice ourselves and time for the sake of others, we honor him. When the honor goes to God and his Son, when our behavior glorifies his holiness, then we receive great reward-here in this life, every day.That is encouraging.
Matthew 25:40 "...the King shall answer and say "Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
Done What?- Fed the hungry Offered drink to the thirsty Gave hospitality Clothed the naked Visited the ailing Visited those in prison
Looking over this list, how many times have we done any of it?Yet, the Word says that when we do this [regarding the believer], we are doing it to and for the King.Now, who amongst us would not go out of our way to serve the Lord?It is God's way of letting us know how important each of us is.What we do for each other we do for Him.Sounds simple but in truth, in the big picture, not much, is accomplished in this manner.Think about this:If we could personally give Jesus a drink of water, would you withhold it?Would you say you were to busy and wait for someone else to do it?No!We would be tripping over ourselves to get it to him.What if Jesus came to you and needed your coat?Can you imagine yourself saying "I wouldn't mind, but then I"d have to wear this old thing...a hand me down from my sister!"NO!You would give him your coat, your shoes and socks!Yet, we hold back the very basics to others. (Rarely...would anyone want our socks)
I'm just painting a mental picture) Is there a reason we hold back?I think for the most part, yes, there is a reason.It is usually caused by fear-not selfishness.
Many of the Christian women I know are care givers in one area or another; I mean, above and beyond what is expected of them as wives and mothers.Why can some women give so selflessly and other hold back, even when they have abundance?
What are some of the reasons you think people are afraid to give extra, give them selves to others? Our priorities may be on other things; good things, for example:
But what about missions work? What about teaching Sunday school? What about prayer time? What about time on the social committee, singing in the choir, etc.Do those count?Of course they do.And every good work shows the world and each other our love for Jesus.(James 2:17 "Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.")
But for this study, Encouraging the Encouragers, let's look at what our role is in lifting up and coming along side our sisters in the Lord.
Let me ask you- What do YOU think your role is? What have you been doing to fulfill that role for the cause of Christ? Are you happy in the outcome of your efforts? If you could change your attitude...would you? Do you need assistance in helping you understand your role? ...and finally, Are you willing to meet God's goal for your life?
A lot to think about - yes?That's good.Thinking is good.Listening to the word of God is even better.The next several studies will help us build our relationship with God in order to build our relationship with others.We are encouragers after all...and we need encouragement as well.
Walking in Peace / division of C.O.P.E. Women's Ministries Sue Puff, author
