6-Nov-14

For even Christ didn’t live to please himself.  As the Scriptures say, “The insults of those who insult you, O God, have fallen on me.” Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled. May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Romans 15:3-5Encourage….To inspire with hope, courage, or confidence, support, stimulate.  God gives us patience and encouragement.  We each need a lot of encouragement and the friend who has the gift of encouragement is a treasure.A friend of mine has an abundance of this gift.  Each time I leave her presence, I feel that I was capable of anything I will try to do, because of her encouragement.  Each time we are in the Lord’s presence, He gives us hope and courage to stay firm in His Love despite the many hindrances of life.That same encouragement that we feel in the Lord’s presence, we extend to others when we fellowship together in the Holy Spirit.  Loving, agreeing, working together with one mind and purpose is an encouragement.  Humility goes a long way to encourage others.  Thinking of others first instead of self brings blessing.The how’s of encouragement come from love.  God is Love.  Encourage others in the Name of Jesus, and your life, your very breath, becomes encouragement to all.Dear Lord God, Help me to share your great love that is so precious to me.  May my thoughts, attitudes and my very heart be filled with love for others and share the most precious thing to me — your love — that gives me courage.  May Jesus always be praised!  In Jesus’ Name, AmenIs there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Philippians 2:1-3