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You’re Not Invisible: The Gift of Encouragement

2011 June 2
by Bonnie Gray
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"Shots of Encouragement".

To kick things off, two winners will be selected
to receive their pick of DaySpring's Premium Greeting Card 10-Pack (orig. $28-29)!
Enter by joining in today's Faith Jam -- at the end of today's post!

One time, when I was little, I played a game.

Grandparents, aunts and uncles were all visiting that weekend. The house was packed.

I don’t know why I came up with the idea, but I thought it would be fun to hide. I wanted to see what would happen, if I suddenly went missing.

I slipped behind our dusty olive-green couch, squeezing myself under it’s sagging belly. My legs slid in easy, along with part of my tummy. There I hid half contorted, like a gummy worm stuck between the wall and the carpet.

I waited and waited for someone to come look for me.

I eventually climbed out numb and stiff.

No one seemed to miss me.

No matter how old we get or how strong we’ve grown, we can all use encouragement.

We all find ourselves stuck in hard places –

– we wonder if anyone notices.
– we wonder if anyone cares.

When we are happy, is there someone I can dance the crazy-dance with?
When we are unsure, is there anyone I can talk to in run-on sentences and find them still listening?

When we’re pressed against our everyday lives, we wonder if anyone sees.

Most Encouraged

Of course, we keep getting up, putting on our shoes and gas in the car.

Still. Deep inside, we are all waiting for a chance to be known.

The times in my life I was most encouraged were the times I felt most invisible.

I might have only shared the very tip of the iceberg of worries — or glossed over something happy going on in my life.

Once in awhile, someone notices. There was more to the struggle or the excitement I was willing to reveal.

For unknown reasons, that someone will go to the store, stand in the card aisle, and pick out some words — just for me. She might have just pulled out her drawer full of envelopes and notes. I wouldn’t be surprised.

I’d imagine her committing pen to paper, signing her name and whispering a prayer in her heart for me.

Encouragement is a Gift, Really

If you are someone with a heart for those who are feeling invisible — this month is in honor of you. It’s kind of ironic, but sometimes the people who encourage others the most are the one most in need of encouragement.

Today’s post highlights one of the most treasured gifts I have ever received: the gift of encouragement. My heart would not be as alive — embracing both my scars and my blessings — if it weren’t for friends like you.

You are the ones that God sees and says with cheer:

“We all have different gifts, based on the grace given us… If it is encouraging, devote yourself to encouraging others.” Romans 12:6-8

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 1 Thess. 5:11

The spotlight is often given to the more “up-in-front” spiritual gifts like evangelism or teaching, both of which are very important.

But the spiritual gift of encouragement is no lesser just because it is hidden.

Jesus Himself encourages us with the work of giving in secret.

“…so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:4

God Sees It All

Sometimes, when we give encouragement, we may not see visual returns.

God says He sees it all — and He values each one of you –

~  Those words you tactfully chose to share.

~   Those emails you sent.

~  The cards you mailed.

~  The gift you cooked or made.

~  The time you spent.

~  The forgiveness you gave.

The list goes on and on.  The quiet ways that no one may ever know about. God knows.

You are not invisible.    You are highly cherished, appreciated and valued.

May God reward you with refreshment in return.

“A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25

Join Today’s Jam

I’d love to get encouraged by you.

Share a post from your blog on the encouragement.

Just submit the url of the your post below.

If you don’t have a blog, you can join in by adding a comment.

I’ll be making my way, to drop by to read and visit with my cup of coffee, my heart beating with anticipation, of being with together with you. Encouraged and no longer alone.

~~~~~

How has God been encouraging you?

Pull up a chair. Click to share a comment or subscribe by email.
~~~~~

** DaySpring’s Premium Greeting Card Giveaway **

Thanks to DaySpring, two winners will be selected to receive their pick of DaySpring’s Premium Greeting Cards 10-Pack! Check out the three different card packs here..

To Enter: By Sunday 6/5/11

1.  Submit a post in today’s Faith Barista Jam.

– or –

2.  Submit a comment.

(** You’ll get double entry if you’d like to do both!).

* Thanks again to DaySpring for sponsoring today’s giveaway. This month at the DaySpring Store , you can save $20 on any $50 order shopping at the (spend $70 and you get free shipping too). Just use the special (in)spired special June coupon: JUNE20.
~~~~~

*** NOW, IT’S YOUR TURN — FAITH BARISTA JAM! ***


FaithBarista_FreshJamBadgeG

Faith Barista Jam Thursdays – I serve up a topic of faith, you write the post. Let’s encourage each other. Add your voice. Swap our stories.

Today’s Topic 6/2:
The Power Of Encouragement

Share your post by clicking on the blue button below “Add Your Link” or just comment directly.

Next Thursday’s Topic 6/9 :
It’s the month of classic June weddings. A reader who is single asked me how I met my husband. She said it always encourages her to hear the different ways God leads people to find true love.

In the spirit of encouragement, I’d love to hear from our community. Write on the topic: Finding “The One”.

Approach it any way you feel inspired! Only required ingredient: keep it real. Thanks for serving your personal brews!

Build the Keep Fresh Fresh Community: Grab the HTML Code For Faith Barista Jam Badge

HTML Code For the Faith Jam Faith Fresh Badge



It’s a jam session. As time allows, say hi & drop a comment when visiting the community faith blends!

~~~~~

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  1. June 2, 2011

    I don’t do sports. I think I had exercise asthma so I was always gasping for air in P.E. class, missing the ball, whatever. Perhaps I was okay at volleyball, but not good at sports.
    So one day the school where I taught part time had a field day. A whole day of sports with random teams. I watched. And then I started cheering for my kids, the half of the third grade that I was watching over. I started cheering for the other half too. Wouldn’t you know, the kids responded? They surprised me. They did better than I thought they would!
    When I joined the teachers in tug of war the kids actually cheered for me!
    I have realized I need to know that I am loved by the person speaking words of encouragement. Known and loved. Or by God who is both behind encouraging words spoken by strangers and in my heart convicting me of the truth of what I hear.
    Sometimes I need a lot of encouragement to fight self-doubt, or to overcome discouragement, as in that I’m no good at sports.
    Sometimes I am given the exact right words to encourage another. Then I am amazed at the power of encouragement I see at work in them. I’ve also realized that people with the gift of encouragement don’t always realize what a needed gift they have.

    • June 2, 2011

      Beth, it’s amazing how God leads us through life, and shines encouragement through us. It’s a treasure. You’re His gift.

  2. June 2, 2011

    A younger friend has been going through some heartache. And she asked me a question when I commented on a post on her blog…this was my blog reply:

    http://awomansheartajourneytowholeness.blogspot.com/2011/05/about-askinga-how-to-heal-heart-post.html

    Her post so inspired me that I was compelled to answer her. I only hope it helped her heart.

    Blessings,
    Andrea

    • June 2, 2011

      God sees your encouragement, Andrea — keep pouring those shots of encouragement. Your heart matters – may God bless your cup to overflow in your blogging!

  3. June 2, 2011

    I really appreciate this post because I think it draws our attention to the encouragement that comes from God. I approached this topic from the perspective of offering specific words of encouragement to one another and the positive effects they can have. However, we go too far toward that kind of encouragement and expect it. We don’t serve God in order to be encouraged, though it sure does help. The encouragement that comes from God in the secret is what we need the most, so I’m glad you drew our attention to that.

    • June 2, 2011

      I’m looking forward to your post, Ed. It’s always helpful to see the power of words and their impact. God has placed this beautiful gift of words + encouragement in you.

  4. June 2, 2011

    I love what you wrote Bonnie! I agree that some of the times I felt most invisible and discouraged was when I was encouraged the most! Thank you!
    Katie´s last [type] ..Encouragement to go through Pain

  5. June 2, 2011

    Bonnie,
    You are definitely one of those encouragers you’re talking about. How do I know? Because when you leave a comment on my blog, I always feel warmed inside at your sweet words. And encouraged!

    May God continue to use you to bless others. You’re doing a fantastic job of it!
    Lisa notes…´s last [type] ..Two people walk into a room

    • June 2, 2011

      Aw. Thank you, Lisa! That means the WORLD to me. Funny thing, that warm feeling you describe? That’s how I feel .. when I read YOUR BLOG. Don’t stop pouring. You have this beautiful gift in spades!

  6. Bekah permalink
    June 2, 2011

    I often struggle with a feeling of invisibility and insignificance and just this week have found great encouragement from a friend whom I refere to as my “God friend” in that she is a few years older than I and seems to have preceded me in several of life’s paths. I was going through all my old cards and found at least 15 from this friend, some as many as five years old, and still gleaned strength and encouragement from each one, and in return let her know how much those precious words still mean. In this I realized that all those times I think of someone and consider sending them a card or giving them a call or shooting them a text, I pro ably should… There’s no telling how alone they may be feeling or just need to k ow they have a friend. I think the gift of encouragement is vital, especially within the Kingdom of God. As an extension of God’s hands and feet I think we should also start extending our words to build others up. This blog was as timely as it ever could have been for me, and many others I’m certain. Thank you!

    • June 2, 2011

      Bekah, what a joy it is to have you here — sharing your heart for God and others. May Jesus encourage you especially this week as you reflect on His gift in you!

  7. Mary Mauk permalink
    June 2, 2011

    Times are uncertain, life is in turmoil, and change seems to be a whirling dervish sweeping me along. Yet in the midst of all of this God’s Word comforts and encourages me.

    “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you… Be strong and courageous… The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deut. 31:6-8

    “My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Psalm 121:2

    “For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior.
    He will take delight in you with gladness. With His love, He will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.” Zeph. 3:17

    “I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 (NLT)

    Some of the keys I use to overcome discouragement:
    1) focus on God and His faithfulness
    2) give thanks “in spite of and in the midst of” whatever I’m facing
    3) reach out to others who are in need and encourage them

    Hugs and blessings to you today!

    • June 2, 2011

      Thank you, Mary for taking the time to share these beautiful verses — and your tips on encouragement. We’re all blessed here drinking these in!

  8. June 2, 2011

    Thank you for encouraging me with this post! So well said, Bonnie, and I couldn’t agree more!

    I love your choice of topic, as well. Thanks for coming up with such great ideas for Faith Jams!
    Melissa´s last [type] ..Encouragement- Just Do It

    • June 2, 2011

      I’m so blessed to drink your faith jam posts. Looking forward to enjoying your brew this week, Melissa!

  9. melissa c permalink
    June 2, 2011

    I never noticed the bible verses on encouragement before. Thanks for sharing them! I feel encouraged when I read your blog and others from (in)courage. I hope can give others a bit of encourgement and love when I pass them along or send an e-card through Dayspring.

  10. Traci Rabon permalink
    June 2, 2011

    God sends me my encouragement thru my friend/co-worker every day. She is always uplifting and positive. Her spiritualality just oozes out of her in the simplest of ways sometimes even unknowing to herself. I thank God every day for aloowing her to be friend and a role model to me.
    Thank you as well for your daily motivators also!

    • June 2, 2011

      It is definitely not the norm to have an encouraging friend and work. What a blessing, Traci! Happy you’re here!

  11. Sue Colburn permalink
    June 2, 2011

    Thank you so much for your words of encouragement today. Just what I needed!
    So often, it seems, I find myself wishing I could be invisible, thinking that if maybe I was, I wouldn’t get hurt, I wouldn’t be wounded. That is when I feel drawn to the Scripture, and find hope amid the chaos, peace in the middle of the storm, and a rainbow to brighten the rain.
    I don’t deserve God’s goodness, but that is what Grace is all about. I tried starting a blog called ‘My Journey of Grace’, and I fear I have been remiss in keeping it current, but I am learning so much, and being able to share what I learn to my friends- those with whom I work at the Choices for Women center, and at the church where we pastor.
    There is so much to learn, and though slow sometimes, I long to learn more and more about the One who loves me unconditionally, and says that I am important to Him!
    Thanks again for your encouraging and thought provoking blogs! Maybe someday I will be on the ‘blog wagon’!
    Thank God for You, my friends from (in)courage.

    • June 2, 2011

      Sue, your words are so poignant. What a great angle on “invisibility”. We can be known or loved if we stay in hiding. You’re an encourager and I thank you for being friends here!

  12. June 2, 2011

    What a great and motivating post. I Love to encourage others, but as you (so well) stated, it is the encouraging we do behind the scenes that matters most to God. The bonus is when God blesses us because of our obeidience to Him. Showing love and kindness to others with No expectations is what he asks of us.

  13. Dottie permalink
    June 2, 2011

    I believe in the saying actions speak louder than words. Sometimes in our silence God will inspire us to know just what another person may need and to act upon it. The encouragement acting upon God inspiration can be amazing. We just have to listen and allow God to speak to our soul. And act upon it. Seeing the reaction from others when we do this is just beautiful!

    • June 2, 2011

      You sound like an encourager to me, Dottie! :) May God encourage your beautiful heart!

  14. June 2, 2011

    Great post and topic! It’s good to be reminded how important encouraging one another is.
    Kristine McGuire´s last [type] ..Loving Others in the Face of Fear

  15. June 2, 2011

    Love!

  16. Carol permalink
    June 2, 2011

    I remember my mom, years ago, saying she felt invisible ~~ I think it is true of many elderly people. We need to slow our pace and treasure their contributions :) . Your article is a good reminder. Thank you!

    • June 2, 2011

      Carol, I was just thinking the same thing the other day, when I saw an elderly person exit her car with assistance. What stories and encouragement this woman held in her heart, I imagined.

  17. June 2, 2011

    Bonnie, one of the things my husband told me when we were first dating was that I had the gift of encouragement. It never occurred to me. His telling me I was an encourager was one of the biggest encouragements I ever received! And it helped me to do more of the same.

    Your post reminds me to keep going that way.
    Monica Sharman´s last [type] ..How Is a Ham Bone Like a Cedar Tree

    • June 2, 2011

      You are DEFINITELY an encourager, Monica. You’ve blessed my heart so much with your words. I can’t imagine in person. ;)

  18. Jules permalink
    June 2, 2011

    Where do I begin, after reading so many devotions I began to gather two or three that post impacted me and started sharing them with a group of women and added my own comments as a means of encouragement. Through time, I have been told that I have encouraged so many women with sending notes they needed to hear at that precise moment… I thank God for ladies like all of you that write and blog and encourage us women to be more and share all that God has given us…. I would have never thought I had this gift, but through all of this, I find myself to have been more blessed for as God’s word says He would refreshes another is himself refreshed!! Thank you!!!

    • June 2, 2011

      Jules — yep. You did it right here.. again! :) The beauty is that it is so natural, flowing from who God made you. We both get blessed.

  19. June 2, 2011

    Thank you Bonnie for this incredibly timely post. I am going to say that God had you write this just for me. :-) Your really encouraged me. Thank you…
    hugs xo

    • June 2, 2011

      Well, then you’d be right! :) God must have known it was going to be just for you, KC! xo

  20. Shirley Peter permalink
    June 2, 2011

    I loved the message from the gifts of encouragement. We all need it, especially in times like now. We get all sort of fearful messages but very few encouraging ones, and we need to all thank those that do things that encourage us, send things that are encouraging. I know that these things cheer me on days when there seems to be on cheer, and Faith Barista offers encouragement that I thank them for. Shirley.

    • June 2, 2011

      So true, Shirley. We hear so much negative and depressing stories. Encouragement is so refreshing. Thank you for taking time to pour some refreshing words here today!

  21. June 2, 2011

    These cards would be a great way to drop a note to say, “I prayed for you today!”

    Deborah
    Homemaker Honey
    homemakerhoney.com
    homemakerhoney @gmail .com
    stelladot.com/homemakerhoney

  22. Peggy permalink
    June 2, 2011

    Beth, Thanks for sharing. I love that you cheered for both teams. I have been know to do that too. I love when everyone is a winner instead of just one side feeling good and one side being the losers. So glad that God puts the different gifts in peoples lives. God bless!

  23. June 2, 2011

    I have a special heart for those who are neglected — those that are unseen and forgotten.

    it may be a man on the street. It may be the person with a broom cleaning out the lobby of a hotel. It may be that older person living only with memories as she looks down her street.

    We all should have the ‘gift’ of encouragement
    David Rupert´s last [type] ..Gods tattoo

  24. June 2, 2011

    I agree with Lisa. You do a great job of encouraging in your blog posts and follow-up comments and e-mail messages to the participants in your Faith Jams. May God pour that same encouragement back into your life!
    tinuviel´s last [type] ..Honeycomb Words

  25. June 2, 2011

    One of my Bible Study leaders recently encouraged us to make a “BARNABAS” Box (Barnabas was an encourager in the Bible). In my decorated box, I put all notes, cards, words, emails, pictures, etc.. of encouragment that I have received. I pull the box out on days when I feel discouraged or sad and God uses those saved memories to pour His love and grace on my heart.
    One of my all-time favorite things to do is to send cards of love and encouragment to my friends and family. I send at least 5 cards a week.
    Christina Burrell´s last [type] ..Strawberry White Chocolate Muffins-Simply Scrumptious!

  26. Edith Bailey permalink
    June 2, 2011

    Thanks Bonnie for all the words of encouragement! I am always searching for encouraging words to use on our church bulletin. God Bless you !

  27. Heidi permalink
    June 2, 2011

    What a good reminder for me today! I used to send out lots of cards and still do occasionally. Now that I’m going through my own “situation”, I realize how much cards, hugs and thoughtful words(not plastic answers or replies) mean during this lonely and confusing time. I have a card stash that I use whenever someone encourages me. It’s fun to see who comes up to me and thanks me! Just for sending them a card. It does my heart good in the midst of my own “situation.” Thanks for the reminder that I still need to encourage others in the midst of my own hurt.

  28. June 2, 2011

    Bonnie:

    You are an example of encouragement to us all! God has richly gifted you. Thank you.
    HisFireFly´s last [type] ..Playing baseball with Jesus

  29. Jody permalink
    June 2, 2011

    When you care about people and see them as God does (not always easy!), you’ll want to know what’s going on with them and take time to get to know them. That’s when you find out what is important to them or what they are struggling with currently. Now you and your new best friend are no longer invisible to each other! You can then show love by being God’s instrument with a word, a hug, a card, a smile or a shared tear. An encourager lets the person know that they’ve been heard and valued while at the same time, the encourager receives a blessing from having her own expressions heard! Prov 11:25 in action!

  30. June 2, 2011

    It’s so easy to forget how important encouraging others is in the hubbub and chaos of living our own lives… We all have struggles, and it’s easy to forget that our struggles aren’t the only ones. Encouraging others not only lifts them up, it reminds us to look beyond our our own trials – to open our eyes and really see others… in the process we’re able to see so much more… the blessings of our life are invisible if all we are focusing on is our trials.

    I think it just might be time for me to invest in some cards and stamps… :)
    Nonna´s last [type] ..The Fallen Free…

  31. June 2, 2011

    One of my favorite passages in the Old Testament is of God finding Hagar and Ishmael when they ran away due to Sarah’s mistreatment. In that account, God identified himself as the God who sees. Encouragement really is about seeing, isn’t it; and entering in and being a means of God’s grace in the life of another. Thanks for the invitation to post here, once again. Blessings.
    Nancy´s last [type] ..Headstones That Preach

  32. June 2, 2011

    Yes, I guess I agree that it is at times when I have felt most ‘invisible’ that encouragement has mattered most to me.
    I’m going through a period of invisibility in my workplace at the moment.
    I haven’t felt encouraged. (Yet. It will happen sometime. Probably – certainly – when I’m not looking for it.)
    So it occurred to me, today, just before reading this, that to be encouraged is a little like ‘to have a friend, be a friend.’ So to be encouraged, I need to actively look for ways of encouraging others. I like to think I do this normally, but when feeling invisible it is just that little bit harder.
    So this faith jam has been an encouragement, a prod to get going and encourage others. Great!

  33. June 2, 2011

    My encouragement today was from “Elisabeth Elliot on the daily grind” . . .When Jesus was preparing his disciples for his departure from them, He said, “Believe in God. Believe also in me.”
    The obedience of faith requires that we do our work. We must go on day after day, simply and
    humbly, not waiting for chills and thrills. Grace, not revelation, is our daily bread. Grace is
    enough. Receiving that, in the portion given according to the lovingkindness of our God, we must act responsibly in the situation in which He puts us, as the disciples had to do when left behind at Christ’s ascension. No doubt they felt bewildered and abandoned and would like to have risen with Him through the clouds. When the angels suddenly stood beside them and asked why they were gazing into the sky, they “came down to earth,” as it were, went back to Jerusalem to the lodging where they belonged and carried on with their prayers.
    Lord, help me today to receive what You want me to have and to do my work as a good and
    faithful servant.”
    In the Old Testament the priests did do the same caring duties for the temple day after day, and
    the same physical sacrifices were offered. That tells me that I shouldn’t be surprised to find
    myself doing the same duties over and over, giving the same care over and over, even washing
    the same clothes, dishes, etc, over and over, because that is what my job is today
    And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, … Hebrews 10:11
    Furthermore, every (human) priest stands (at his altar of service) ministering daily, offering the same sacrifices over and over again,… Amplified Bible
    My Father expects daily service ‘as unto the Lord’ and supplies the grace to succeed.
    I’m thankful.

  34. Christine permalink
    June 2, 2011

    I often get encouraged by a very close friend who lives in Florida, who is also my ex-husband, believe it or not. We are really close and have known each other for 24 years. Whenever I am down or something is troubling me, Walter, who is also a Christian, always sends me a Dayspring ecard to lift my spirits and it always works. God has used him in some amazing ways to help me. I am truly thankful for him.

  35. June 2, 2011

    Your story reminded me of a time when I deviated from the regular way to preschool from regular school. I got lost. It seemed like forever when I finally got there and no one seemed to miss me. :o )
    Nikole Hahn´s last [type] ..How To Be A Good Salesman

  36. June 2, 2011

    God has been encouraging me through others lately. With the uncertainty of our future and the upcoming move, I feel unsure and scared. There are many who send emails, texts, make quick phone calls or give a hug — all saying that they’re praying and they support what we’re doing. They are worth more than gold!
    Melissa Brotherton´s last [type] ..Your Newborn is Ugly

  37. Stephanie permalink
    June 2, 2011

    God has been encouraging me lately while I’m driving back and forth to work through my local Christian music radio station! The perfect song always seems to play when my heart needs soothed or I just want to sing praises to Jesus and thank Him for loving me and for all the blessings He has given me. Thanks for all you do too Bonnie. Your devotions really shine the light of Jesus in this broken world we all live in.

    Gods sweetest blessings to all!

  38. Tay permalink
    June 2, 2011

    Hey, I just want you to know that I love your blog. Reading your blog posts always make my day! Love you!

    Every time I think of you I thank God for you. (Phil. 1:3)

  39. June 3, 2011

    Truly the best encouragement I have gotten is when I ask for a word from the Lord. Then he gently guides me to whom he has chosen to speak through. It may be a blog, a book, music, or letter. It is when I choose to be alone with his voice. So I understand the invisibility and encouragement. God is using us to speak encouragement to his people. God also tells us if we give we will receive. I believe that if we encourage in those silent ways, then we too will be encouraged. A dose from a sympathy card, or a quick note can be life changing. Thanks for your words of encouragement.
    Melinda´s last [type] ..Why do we send flowers to the sick

  40. June 3, 2011

    This is beautiful, Bonnie! Thank you! Thank you so much for sharing! <3
    Cathy´s last [type] ..An Ice Cream For Encouragement- A Faith Barista Jam

  41. Suzanne permalink
    June 4, 2011

    This was a great post – thanks for the reminder:) Isn’t it easy to sometimes focus on studying and the deeper things (which are all good!!) and then forget the simplest, like encouragement? To encourage someone, it doesn’t have to cost money, it doesn’t always take much time, but yet the results yielded for someone else can be dramatic. Makes you think about the fact that the simpler things in life are often the most important. Thanks, Bonnie!!

  42. Peggy permalink
    June 4, 2011

    He has been using some of what I am reading but also some people to speak truth into my life. God is also allowing me to see glimpses of hope and progress in some situations.

  43. ellen permalink
    June 4, 2011

    God has been encouraging me through His word and His character lately. When I realize and feel oh-so-deeply my inadequacies, He draws me back to the foundations of who He is, and that turns my fears and insecurities into strong places to claim His character over my life. He is mine and I am His. Encouraged by the Great Encourager:)

  44. June 4, 2011

    This week God has been encouraging me as I’ve been following all of the Compassion bloggers during their trip to the Philippines. So much so that we are going to sponsor another child and through my GivingBack foundation we were able to donate to the Unsponsored Children’s fund as well. As soo as we find the child (so hard to choose ;) then we’ll be posting about it all on Monday. So in the meantime I’ve shared one of my recent posts about how giving Bags of Hope to the homeless has actually given me back more hope and faith in others than I could have possibly imagined. Thanks for hosting Bonnie and I’m looking forward to sharing my love story next week…so much fun! Hope you have a wonderful weekend. Fondly, Roberta

  45. Lesley permalink
    June 4, 2011

    This post was great, thanks. God has been encouraging in the past few weeks by reminding me of all his many promises. Lately I’m been going through some things (like may others) that have been difficult. When I feel like I’m overwhelmed or like things are out of control, God’s peace comes and washes over me. I’m so thankful for His faithfullness that when we “I” may feel invisible or unimportant to others, He is quick to remind me that I am the “one and only” in His eyes.

  46. June 4, 2011

    I am new here, but I LOVE the encouragement that everyone in the faith-based blogging community shares with each other. it is Inspiring and encouraging! Blessings abound!
    Kris´s last [type] ..Every Day Five Minute Friday

  47. Julie Lawson permalink
    June 4, 2011

    After 43 yrs I have realized I have the gift of encouragement. I love to send cards and write notes to people to lift them up. My Mom has passed this legacy on to me and it is such a joy. I love connecting to the Holy Spirit in this way…listening for His voice when someone needs Him andi Get to be the conveyor of His words. It is incredible!!

  48. June 4, 2011

    It was encouraging to read your post! Thank you so much.
    We all need a dose of encouragement:)
    Dawn´s last [type] ..I Call Him Bubba

  49. Becky Rumney permalink
    June 4, 2011

    My husband is only 57 years old and has been in Hospice for 1 year. He is ready to go home to be with the Lord. We are both looking forward to new beginnings for each of us! He has been to heaven once before during a coma and know what a great place it is! We are patiently waiting for God to call him. With faith you can get through this journey in life!

  50. June 4, 2011

    Dayspring’s “encouraging” cards are the best! I’ve used some before to share with friends at church, and would love to do so againe!

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  1. The Little Things
  2. The Gift of Encouragement | Writing Canvas
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