We All Either Walk Or Crawl

1 Thessalonians 5:11 “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

Encouraging one another and building each other up is an amazing thing. It feels good to be on either side of it. Heck, it feels good to even witness it.

Encouragement leads to positive actions that come from positive reinforcement. The same is true for the opposite. Negative comments lead to negative actions and reinforces the need for more negativism. Sad but true.

When we see someone doing something that needs a positive comment, we should NOT hold back! We should in fact say it right then and there to them. Yes, even if it is a stranger. Why? Because you never know what it is they are needing right at that very moment. Perhaps they just prayed for God to ‘show up’ in a way that only He can. Then, He does it through you! It is free to give yet its benefits are priceless. Think of it: if someone had not encouraged you to “walk” you might not be walking now ;-) you might still be crawling around. Wow, there is a MEF: we have eyes to see people as their true need. Those that have good self-esteem and are encouraged or built up, are all walking around a busy mall and have a glow about them. Those that are feeling bad, have low self-esteem, or are just in need of some encouragement, are actually crawling around in the mall and have a shadow about them. The ones on their knees are still carrying all of their packages, yet, not able to fully look up. Then, one of the people walking, bends down and offers help to someone on their knees (by the way, perfect pose for ‘knee-mail’ = prayer) and helps them up to their feet. As this happens, the shadow gets dimmer and the light from the walking person starts to spread to the other person trying to stand up. With a bit more help, and words of affirmation and encouragement, the crawling person starts standing taller and taller. The shadow is fully gone, and they too are now bathed in light. Not only are they now smiling, they actually have a warmth flowing in and through them, that they seems to make them even ‘more alive’ than when they first arrived. The two part ways, and a few steps away, the crawler now bends down to help another crawler. What a beautiful thing to witness!

Today, if you are a crawler and people don’t notice that you are on your knees, know this: our Father in heaven KNOWS! He has SO much to say to you and encourage you with! You have a computer or phone, look it up! Let’s see… if you are feeling sad or depressed there are a TON of Psalms as well as many other verses. Psalm 42:11, Psalm 42:6, Psalm 40:17, Psalm 147:3, Philippians 1:6, John 14:27, John 14:1, Philippians 2:13, James 1:2-4, Psalm 5:11, Psalm 16:11, Ecclesiastes 11:10, Psalm 30:5, Psalm 126:5, 1 Thessalonians 5:18, 2 Corinthians 4:17; Philippians 4:4, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Isaiah 52:9, Isaiah 61:3, Habakkuk 3:17-18, Psalm 32:11, Nehemiah 8:10, Philippians 4:8 just to name a few J If you read these in this order, it will flow like a conversation from God. Pretty neat! The other thing, that is not like the MEF (mind’s eye flash) it would be very helpful, if you would reach out to someone, and share your feelings and or need. As you know, when we walk around in regular life, others can NOT see us crawling on the inside, they see us walking and smiling like we are all good. However, if you let someone know – then you both get to be blessed by the encouragement and building up.

Today, if you are someone that is “walking” around, but perhaps minding your own business… I encourage you to “look for” and “spot” those that are crawling, and give them some words that will lift their spirits. You may need to get on the ground with them, and give them confidence to pick themselves up. Perhaps, you will need to bend down and actually help lift them up. Either way, its free, it is easy – and you will be blessed for it. Remember, you never know when YOU are the answer to someone else’s prayer. Be well my friend. Be safe. And enjoy being blessed.