Encouragement–a two-way street

 

This past week-end I met with a group of writers at the beach.

Oh, joy! Getting away from the hectic pace of everyday life to spend a weekend learning from talented, successful authors, willing to share their gifts with aspiring writers. I received a blessing!

 

 

Did I mention we were at the beach? Sunny and 70 plus degrees in February!

I only briefly visited the beach (we were working!), but I could hear the ocean at night, soothing my spirit and reminding me that our Creator is the one in control.

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:1-2

God is our first source of refuge and of strength. Family follows as an essential support, but friends are really important, aren’t they?

While a beautiful setting is wonderful, it’s people that made this particular experience awesome. When a bunch of writers abide in the same location, its as if we’re bound together with a warm and fuzzy rope. We understand each other, even without speaking. We can finish each other’s sentences. Plot creation roadblocks and character development problems become resolved when discussed in our group. We have a mutual adoration for reading and creating stories for others to read. And, while we want to be the very best writer, we want that for each other, too! This allows us to be an amazing support group.

As we communed together this weekend we shared tasks and accomplishments from this past year and our current work in progress. We discussed both positive and negative situations that have impacted our work. During my sharing time I briefly mentioned a project I had put on hold since last February. Later, in private, a dear friend asked me why. I shared some personal information that I had kept hidden for an entire year.

What did she do? My friend gifted me with loving, sincere encouragement.

She listened…she understood…she grieved with me…

She gave me Hope.

And, I accepted…

Encouragement is a two-way street. We encourage and we receive encouragement. It’s up to the recipient whether or not they accept that gift.

Have you encouraged someone today?

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up as in fact you are doing. 1st Thessalonians 5:11

Have you accepted the gift of encouragement and moved on to the tasks that God has set for you?

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

My friends, I pray that you will be strong and courageous in your work for the Lord!