September 9, 2012 Encourage

Encourage Romans 14:13 Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way. THE other day someone came into a meeting I was at, and before she sat down, she wanted to make sure that everyone knew about some surprisingly excellent service she had received on her car. The repair was done within a matter of minutes on her arrival, and it was so simple, the repair shop did not charge her for the service! She wanted everyone to know. And as you can tell, it certainly impressed me. Do you live in a way that looks for faults in people or for the good in people? Often it’s easy to find yourself at odds with those around you because they don’t do things exactly as you do. The power of the Gospel is that it stands above all things—even judgmental attitudes. When you look to others and see them as different, it’s necessary to consider what Christ has done for you and for them. You must take time to recognize that God has created them as he created you. He formed them and you for his purposes. He has brought you all together under one faith to demonstrate that purpose. Be of an attitude that celebrates others. Focus on the positive things they do. Jesus did this. He knew his disciples’ and others’ faults, but he gave up absolutely everything for them and for you that you might become “perfect” in him. Be an encourager. Be a unifying person. When you are this way, you will bring Jesus’ love into people’s lives. It’s True! Speak encouragement, and people will see Jesus.