Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
Five years ago, I played a round of golf with a USGA rules official at Shoal Creek on a Monday after the U.S. Women’s Open. Wendy and I didn’t see each other much after that, but we became Facebook friends and kept up virtually.
Wendy Reinemann died suddenly over the summer, and I burst into tears at my desk when another rules official reached out with the news. I started thinking about Wendy’s beloved parrots, her love of books, and her impact on me, mostly through a virtual medium.
What was it about Wendy that made such an impression?
She was an encourager.
Simply put, Wendy’s comments made my heart smile. And I’d underestimated how much of a lift they’d been over the years.
We can all think of people who feel like sunshine in our lives, whether when they walk into the room or pen an uplifting note.
The Bible is clear about the importance of encouraging our neighbors. In today’s online world, we can encourage people worldwide with a quick flick of the keys.
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Last year, the World Health Organization reported that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a 25 percent increase in anxiety and depression across the globe. Young people and women, in particular, were the most impacted.
As encouragers, we’re called to check in, invite, and say encouraging things!
While in-person is always preferred, my interactions with Wendy prove how much kind/thoughtful comments on a Facebook photo can brighten a day or spur someone into action.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Consider how you might encourage someone today and every day until he comes!
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for all the encouragers in my life. Please help me find ways I can be that person for someone else.