The Encouragers

It is a glorious and sunny California day. I have been lifted up by the words of people I care for. A note from my beautiful daughter Athena, encouragement from the ladies of the Wednesday night Bible study and this morning the Women of Grace. Inspirational words from my Myspace and other internet friends.

These encouragers blessed me and in doing so won a blessing for themselves as is promised in the Bible. Sometimes I wonder if it is good for me to be so transparent and then when my vulnerability gives others a chance to do good I see that in the grand scheme of things it is still good that I don't hide the cracks, the worn places where things aren't so smooth, the weariness and the weaknesses.

There was a time when I would not have shared my concerns so openly. I would have thought it marred my testimony, but now I realize that unless I am completely real, unless I am completely open and honest, my witness isn't genuine any way.

I am feeling much better today, more like my old optimistic self. So today I thank the Lord for the encouragers who have lifted me up and in doing so have become the hands of God.

Because I know firsthand how faithful the Lord is, I am never down for long, and I never feel "forsaken." To be honest, most of where I was related to the fact that I wanted God to meet our need "my way," even though I know deep down His way is what I really need.