How Good of an Encourager Are YOU?

Go ahead and admit it, it's nice to be told you're doing a good job. It certainly beats having teethmarks on the back pockets.

Here's a verse we hear at funerals, but I would like to look at it from a different perspective:"The master answered, ‘You did well. You are good and loyal. Because you were loyal with small things, I will let you care for much greater things. Come and share my joy with me.’" - Matthew25:21

When someone does a good job, do you let them know? Let's say you dine at a restaurant and have good service. Do you tip a couple of dollars or do you make sure the server knows they have done a good job?

Let's take a different approach...you come up to a building with your hands full and the person ahead of you not only holds the door open, but helps you with your burden. How do you respond? Do you ignore the act as it is owed to you? Do you punch them in the face for interfering with your predicament or are you grateful for their kindness?

If we pay close attention, we will find that almost all of Jesus' teachings revolve around three things:

1. Loving God First! Because, let's face it, God is God and we are not. (Matthew 22:37)
2. Love others as you love yourself. (Matthew 22:39)
3. Because you love God and others, treat others in the same way you want to be treated. (Matthew 7:12)

Scripture reminds us to be encouragers. We get hammered with negativity regularly...but encouragement? Understand, I am not trying to say correction should not given where correction is due. Not at all! But give correction in proportion to the issue that requires correction and give encouragement in proportion to the need for encouragement.

If you want to be encouraged, then encourage!