“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up…” (1Thess. 5:11) We live in a ‘dog eat dog’ world. It seems that everywhere we look in our culture, it is dominated by competition and people seeking their own advantage. Yet, as Christians, we have a higher calling. We are to be an example of truth and grace, which compels us to encourage all men to fulfill their purpose before God.
The holiday season that begins this week is one of joy and celebration. However, it can be a dreaded season of pain and sorrow for those missing loved ones as they reflect upon the empty chair around the dinner table. For many, simple words of encouragement can make the difference between survival and defeat. Consider this story.
Kris Kristofferson is a famous songwriter of the past generation. Back in the 1970s, he went through a period of time in which he had writer’s block. He had failed to write anything of significance for some time. Finally, he told his producer to drop him from his contract. When asked why, he responded, “My well has run dry. I have nothing else to write about.” The producer told Kris that a well like his does not run dry.
Kris was splitting his time between Nashville and working in the Gulf of Mexico, flying a helicopter to transport men to offshore rigs. Then, after a phone call from his producer with an idea, Kris sat down in New Orleans and began writing. In a matter of only a few days, he wrote three huge hits: Me and Bobby McGee, Help Me Make it Through the Night, and Sunday Morning Coming Down. Obviously, his well was not dry; he only needed encouragement from a trusted friend.
How many people feel their ‘well has run dry?’ Life has become too hard, and they feel they have nothing else to offer. Maybe this describes you as the holiday season creeps upon your schedule. The missing voice and presence of a loved one has left you on the border of giving up. Perhaps you feel your life is stuck in the smokey lounge of purgatory.
Take heart. Even in the midst of deep sorrow and loss, we can find purpose and fulfillment. The scars that cut us so deep can become a wound from which the grace of God pours out to others. Our life doesn’t have to become as daunting as a blood donor sitting in a room full of vampires. Jesus sees our broken hearts and desires to use us to help others. Instead of the holidays becoming a season of dread, the Lord can make it a season of purpose.
Look for those walking with a downcast countenance and sadness in their heart. Point them to Christ and encourage them with friendship and grace. Everyone—including you and me—needs… Encouragement.
