Appreciate

“You need to be aware of what others are doing, applaud their efforts, acknowledge their successes, and encourage them in their pursuits. When we all help one another, everybody wins.“

Jim Stovall -

We all have people around us that either do ministry with us, work with us, do projects with us, are a part of some kind of group with us or are in our lives one way or another. 

What we fail to do (sometimes) is really appreciate others for what they are doing to get the work moving along. We forget that each person plays an integral part and each skill makes the end result happen. 

It's important to do this often so the team knows that you care and you have them in mind.

You never know what a little push in the right direction or a little encouragement can do for someone when they most need it.... 

They'll thank you for it later :)

Appreciate

There has never been another you. With no effort on your part you were born to be something very special and set apart. What you are going to do in appreciation of that gift is a decision only you can make ~ Dan Zadra

There is something inside of you that isn't replicated elsewhere. No one else will ever be you, talk like you, think like you or ever be you. There might be something you do that may come close to someone else but hmmmm not really.

How you carry you is fully your responsibility and a very vital part in the equation. God created you fearfully and wonderfully - therefore hold yourself, your standards, your values, your respect in that same token.

Do you proud ;)

Getting Out of the Dumps

Ok...this one is not about us, it's about another person....for a change, right?  The question is: how do you help someone else get out of their dump?

I am certain that we all know someone who falls into the category of "being in the dumps".  We all have that friend that is trying to finish a degree or achieve a goal, and is unable to hang out or do the fun things that you used to do together, or that person who is going or has gone through a challenging marriage/relationship, or that neighbor who has suffered a loss, or that family member who just doesn't seem to want to change anything about their current situation, etc, etc...and the list goes on and on. 

Well, as a fellow human being, what do you do for that person? Are you part of their problem or a part of their solution?  Do you keep hammering in the obvious situation, or do you walk them through redemption?  Are you patient with them, when they just want to remain where they are or is your frustration of not seeing them change quick enough taking over your endurance? 

While we may feel that this is something that requires a whole lot of time and commitment, it is in fact a key indication of your commitment to that person, that you are not in the relationship to judge or point fingers, but you are in fact willing to help them get through to the other side.  Whenever that day actually comes.... :)

It takes time, sure it does!  But if you get into it with a timeline or a mental capacity of how much you'll invest in it, then that deadline will keep approaching, hence, your carnal nature will submit to it...naturally!

But on the other hand, if you are willing to walk through the season with that person, they'll totally appreciate you for it in the end.  AND the best part is, you'll ease yourself off of any expectations you have of them, or the stress that comes along with all the emotions involved. Keeping in mind that one day, you'll also need the sentiment....

Be good, ladies... :) I'm trying too :)

Friendship Builders:

• What challenges are your friends/neighbors/family members/co-workers facing for which your encouragement would provide a boost?
• What are two practical things you can do this week to encourage someone?