SHARE THIS POSTI’ve talked about pressing through to get lift to the next level. I’ve shared that we need to praise God to get a raise. These scenarios are examples of how to get lift in our life no matter our circumstances. A negative word never lifted someone up, and if anything, it knocked them down. We reap what we sow (Galations 6:7).
God Looks At The Heart
God is not focused on outward appearance (1 Samuel 16:7) or what kinds of airs we pretend to put on. He knows our hurts and insecurities. When we treat others poorly, it keeps us out of the will of God.
The Stranger’s Comment
Someone yelled at me across a restaurant one day and said, “Pastor, I don’t like your hair!” I said, “I’m sorry you don’t like my hair.” I didn’t let it ruin my day. Did my flesh want to react and tell him I didn’t like his attitude? Sure, but I chose not to. We need to realize that we don’t have to respond to others in the same manner that they engage us, or at all.
Our Kids
We need to reward the behavior we want. I tell my son I love him. I thank his wife, our daughter-in-love, for marrying him. I encourage my daughter to use and grow her gifts. I want them to be encouraged and empowered.
Our Spouse
I don’t have to knock down my wife to build her up. I tell her how great she is. I tell her that if she ever leaves me, I’m going with her. I tell her I’ll never find another woman like her, so why would I leave? I returned from a trip with her name tattooed on my arm. She realized the commitment behind the message.
I Encourage You
Today, focus on the good. Encourage yourself. Encourage others around you. Focus more on what they are and less on what they are not. Lift them up and find that God honors and lifts you too. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up (James 4:10). Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less. (C.S. Lewis)
I call you blessed! Amen.
