Receiving encouragement from God. Giving encouragement to others.

• Written by Desiree Bustamante

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link

I love getting cards or letters in the mail. It happens so seldom in this computer driven world. While physical cards are my favorite, even an email greeting card or note can really make my day. It means someone is thinking about me, wanting to encourage me, or praying for me. It means God has said something to me through them.

Sometimes we wish God would send us a physical card in the mail, or in our email inbox, giving us a special message intended only for us. Maybe you need a solution to a problem, and wish He would slip a note to you telling you exactly what to do.

Yet I know God does that in many ways. We only need to seek Him,  and be open and prepared for His communication to us. I know I’ve asked God to show me what He wants me to know, or help me with a decision, and often within a short time I get direction in Bible study, a sermon, or through a conversation with a friend. God is faithful to answer prayer and lead His people in the way He desires. We need to be open to hearing Him however He chooses to communicate with us. God used a letter from Peter to encourage His people who were facing difficulties:

“I have written and sent this short letter to you with the help of Silas, whom I commend to you as a faithful brother. My purpose in writing is to encourage you and assure you that what you are experiencing is truly part of God’s grace for you. Stand firm in this grace.”
1 Peter 5:12 New Living Translation

“When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours.”
Romans 1:12 New Living Translation

As God graciously answers us, we should respond to His love and be open to be a messenger for Him—to send encouraging words, uplifting thoughts, Scripture that touched us—the very words we wish to hear, or need, at various times in our lives. So I challenge you today to be that voice of God to others. Send a special card, note, email, or text to someone God lays on your heart this week. Reach out and encourage someone. Show love, kindness, and Christ’s words of wisdom and concern. Be a messenger of love and encouragement, just as Christ has encouraged you.

“So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”
1 Thessalonians 5:11 New Living Translation

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, CO