"...see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently." - 1 Peter 1:22
Everyone has a different psychological and emotional makeup. During these days, many seem to be carrying on with life, working, and doing their best to keep their minds occupied during this time of crisis. Others are really having a struggle. Some are worried, fearful, and having a tough time with loneliness. God gives us the ability through His Word and Spirit to encourage people today! Someone once defined encouragement as "turning on one light at a time in a dark warehouse full of bulbs that need to be lit."
I am asking each of you to watch out for each other. If the Lord lays someone on your mind and heart, reach out to them. Send a text, make a phone call, try an old-fashioned letter. There are so many ways to communicate, but please take the time to do so. Also, don't forget that it is not always the one who put their feelings out all the time on social media that needs encouragement. Often times, it is the people who seem to be coping the best that need to be encouraged the most!
I read this story a few months ago and it reminded me to not only care and pray for those who are obviously discouraged, but also to pray and encourage those who seem to be doing well.
One evening a small, gangly, sad-faced man entered the office of Dr. James Hamilton in Manchester, England. The doctor noticed the depressed look on the man's face. He said,
"Are you sick?"
"Yes, doctor, I am sick with a deadly disease."
"What disease?"
"I am depressed by life. I can't find happiness anywhere. Nothing makes me laugh. I have nothing to live for. Doctor, please give me some answers Doctor."
The doctor said, "The sickness won't kill you. You only need a change of pace. You need to laugh, and get some pleasure."
"What shall I do?" said the man.
"Go to the circus tonight to see Grimaldi, the clown. Grimaldi is the funniest man alive. I saw him a couple of nights ago, and I'm still laughing. Go and see Grimaldi the clown. He will cure you."
A flash of pain crossed the man's face, and he said, "Doctor, don't joke with me. I am Grimaldi the clown!"
Encourage someone today! You will find that as you dispense encouragement you will receive encouragement!