Monday, September 25, 2017

Encourage One Another: a devotion by Ann Broughton




Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:23-24 NIV).

Have you ever been in need of encouragement? This last week my husband and I went on a vacation to Traverse City, Michigan. We visited the Great Bear Dunes and decided to climb this huge hill to see an amazing view of Lake Michigan. It was a sandy bluff with little trees surrounding the trail. Rick asked me if I was sure I could make it, because it was very steep and 1.2 miles. I really wanted to see the view, so we started up the path. Halfway up, I was panting and had to stop every 10 feet just to catch my breath. I was tempted to go back, but my desire to see the view outweighed my fatigue. I grabbed hold of Rick’s hand and with his help I trudged up the hill with my eyes focused on the next curve. I just kept thinking that with Rick’s help I could make it. Other people on the path coming down told me that I could do it and the view was worth it. That made me work harder. When I finally reached the top I sat on a log and was awestruck at the beautiful scene of crystal blue water as far as I could see. It was worth the trouble.

How is this experience like your Christian walk? You see we as Christians need to encourage each other as we try to live as Jesus would want us to live. Without me grabbing onto Rick’s hand, I would not have made it up that hill. We need to come along side a friend in need and let them know we care and will help them. The first Christians, according to Acts 2:44-47, met together and had everything in common. If someone needed money, they would sell their possessions and goods so as to help them. They ate together with glad and sincere hearts. We are to love one another and encourage each other as we strive to live a life that is pleasing to God. There are so many people who need help, and they need to know someone cares about them. You be the one to help them to the top of their steep hill of trouble to see that glorious view of hope in the Lord.

Dear God,
There are so many people who need encouragement. Help me to be the one to come alongside them and to assist them in any way I can. Help me to put other people’s needs above my own, just as Jesus did. Help me to be a living example of how Jesus loved others.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen

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