You Are Amazing
How many times have you heard someone tell you that today? Zero? It's not surprising when this is the age of criticism and judgement on every level. Tabloids exploit constantly and we read damaging headlines into personal lives, as we are innocently waiting in line with our groceries. Very few positive truths are shared with each other about who we really are. That is why this is a huge passion of mine: equipping and enriching the children of God. [That's you].
My husband touched on this in the previous blog post "well that's encouraging," the idea of public affirmation. I want to share more on the subject as I have seen it really bless and empower people.
As an exercise in our small group, I had everyone share on cards (anonymously) what they loved about each other, how they see Jesus in one another, or even any positive first impressions they had. You never know if group activities will fly or flop, but this one flew. Everyone was so generous to build each other up and each one was also drinking in the precious words of life being poured into them. People couldn't stop sharing such beautiful observations and affirmations about one another! Why is that?
We need encouragement. My momma taught me Hebrews 3:13 as a teen and I haven't forgotten it "encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called “Today,” so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin." We can live under so many lies, and then become well guarded fortresses with one another if we don't choose to build one another up as brothers and sisters in His spirit.
Our identities are constantly under fire as we struggle with shame, condemnation, doubt, depression, hopelessness, etc., whether in our workplaces, homes, schools, or even just by ourselves. We can personally judge and nit-pick our every action, and fall into despair and discouragement.
I saw that balloon for Israel and couldn't resist, I knew he would light up receiving a balloon but I also know he loves and craves encouragement. Even as a toddler, I see his heart and his hunger for affirmation. At night, I feed them oatmeal before bed and have made it a point to share something I love about them with every bite I feed them. They eat it up. [Pun intended.] I see my son and his receptiveness to every word. I want to sow into their hearts, I want to see gardens of confidence in who the Lord made them to be, not settle for the weeds of comparison, striving and constantly trying to earn love.
Who can you lift up and encourage? A card, a text, even a Facebook message can go a long way...as you share what you love about someone today. Heck, go pick up a "You are Amazing" balloon at Wal-mart for $0.97 and give it away - I can almost guarantee it will make someone smile. [If not, I will re-imburse you. That's how much I believe in the power of spontaneous love]. The Lord's love for you is so boundless! Know this. Believe this. Share this:
"You ARE amazing."
