by Rev. Rick Pursley
LEARN HIM-LOVE HIM-LIVE HIM
“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mine toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:5-6
Yesterday I received a phone call from a long time friend to inform me that her husband had went home to be with the Lord. Her husband was a man whom over the years I was honored to call my friend. He was a mentor to young and old alike, including myself.
This gentleman was a person whom cared about others. He coached countless young people in our community in cross country, track and field, and basketball. He was an encourager, a coach, a mentor, a friend and a child of God. He encouraged the young people he coached. Yet he was just as concerned about their spiritual growth as he was for their ability as an athlete.
As we walk on this earth, we should be encouragers. We need to give positive reinforcement to those around us and never be too busy to care for one another. The Bible tells us that Jesus was filled with compassion when the multitudes of people would follow Him to hear Him teach or to seek healing.
We need to do the same.
One of the great “encouragers” of my life crossed the ultimate finish line yesterday and heaven rejoiced. God places those encouragers in our lives that make a great impact on us. I have been blessed to have had several.
Let our hearts be filled with compassion like Jesus. Let us always be ready to offer encouragement and comfort to those who need it.