Our friendship is ten years old. I met him when things in my life had
taken a turn south. He was my middle brother's pastor and had been a
pastor to my parents. In spite of how bleak I imagined my future to be,
he continued to tell me, "Marty, God's not through with you. He has a
plan." My wife and I eventually joined the church he pastored where we
continued to build our friendship with our new pastor and his family. At
the end of one particular year, the youth pastor resigned, and my
encouraging friend asked if I'd like the position of Associate Pastor. I
accepted, and for two years we worked together. During that time, he
continued to remind me God had a plan. He was convinced greater things
were in store and told me so often. God awarded me the gift of a
pick-me-up . . . Not in the form of medicine but in the person of a good
friend.
Turning my back on God is possible but unfathomable.
These early Christians had been warned of the dangers of doing so, but
the author doesn't think they will. Better things are in store for them.
He picks them up by speaking optimism and encouragement into their
lives.
My friend was a healer of my spirit. His words brought
peace in my soul. Hearing someone speak hope into my future was enough
to get me through another night and day. When I do this for others, the
same occurs. By encouraging them, I'm encouraged.
Life is filled
with disappointments, but their appearance doesn't mean God has
forgotten me. Through the tough times, he weaves his plan and
accomplishes his purpose for me: being formed into the likeness of
Christ. The trials wart off laziness because it takes hard emotional and
spiritual effort to pattern the various threads of life.
I'm a
product of my past-the tough times included, but I choose not to be a
prisoner. They're a part of my baggage God uses to encourage others that
a brighter future lies ahead. Who can you encourage today?
The Gift of Pick-Me-Up
Today's Bible Verse:
"We are confident that you are meant for better things, things that
come with salvation." Hebrews 6:9
The Gift of Pick-Me-Up
Announcement:
We rejoice with all those whose prayers were answered and thank them for sharing their testimony with us. If you have an answered prayer, may I encourage you to send it to us? These testimonies help others depend more on our loving Heavenly Father. Without Him we would be hopeless. Please send your answered prayer.
God bless you!
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