Colossians 4: 17 – 18 "Be sure to carry out the ministry the Lord gave you." HERE IS MY GREETING IN MY OWN HANDWRITING –PAUL Remember my chains. We are all to be ministers. The Lord gives each of us something that we are called to do. I was so struck when I read this closing that Paul reminded the people of his chains. Paul was encouraging people to follow their calling and to encourage that he (Paul) was still doing this in spite of the chains that bound him. His right hand was bound to the left hand of a soldier that kept watch over Paul and yet he was still ministering. Also, he desired their prayers and encouragement as well. Oh the imagery…picture Paul writing with the soldier bound to him and writing with the other hand. The cold hard stone…and yet he was ministering. He was answering his calling. Sometimes, it isn't easy, but it is our calling. I love the scripture in Colossians 2:2 ~ I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love. When we began to build our women's ministry at Noel this was our team verse. We may not all be gifted in certain areas, but we are all able to offer one another encouragement. We can offer a smile, a hand, a shoulder, a hug, a phone call, a prayer, a meal, some flowers, love…the list goes on and on. Everyone can encourage. So encourage someone today! It helps – I know! Encouraged, Debbie
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Encourage others
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2 comments:
Debbie, I have to wonder if I would still be trying to encourage others inspite of my chains that bound me as Paul was doing? Not sure. What an example of pressing on despite one's circumstances.
I can't even put into words how Paul's story has touched me. I have a greater respect for him as I read the letters that he wrote to the new believers while in chains.
Praying that I have the opportunity to encourage someone today.
You said that "The Lord gives each of us something that we are called to do." It took several years before I knew what my "something" was. I can remember telling my Sunday School class that I don't have any spiritual gifts. They assured me I did. A "spiritual gift" questionnaire that I took at Lifeway revealed that my "something" was leading small groups. Talking in front of people was my worst thing. Please read my testimony at http://whativaluemost.com/Testimony.aspx. and you will understand why..
Debbie, I would to encourage you today. Keep doing what you are doing. You are making a real difference in our world. Thank you for all you do.....
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