The Beautiful Surprise of Being an Encourager

A few days ago, I wrote about being an encourager. Funny how God does that -- once we speak a word out loud, He hands us an opportunity to live it.

Like I often do, I asked God for a “word" for 2026. As Carl and I prayed our way into this new chapter, we landed on one together -- encourager. Not flashy. Not complicated. Just intentional love, spoken and shown.

Scripture puts it plainly: “Encourage one another and build each other up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11) That verse became our nudge.

So Carl picked up the phone and called dear friends, Ursel and Mary, asking if we could stop by for a short visit. They welcomed us warmly. These past four months have not been easy for them. Mary was diagnosed with a brain tumor, endured major surgery, and has been patiently relearning what once came naturally -- walking, speaking, moving through daily life.

We went prepared to encourage.
Instead, we were undone -- in the best way.

Mary, sitting on on the sofa, greeted us with a smile that could light a room. She talked, reasoned, shared her journey with clarity and grace.

I found myself blinking back tears as she spoke. Baby steps, yes --but steps filled with courage, determination, and faith. Steps Ursel has witnessed daily, cheering her on with the quiet strength of steadfast love.

Then there was Christmas.

Ursel, determined not to let hardship steal joy, ordered gifts, wrapped boxes upon boxes, and made sure the house was full of laughter. Their family showed up -- grandchildren camped out on the living room floor -- not because they had to, but because closeness is part of the fun experience!

We left their home changed.

Here’s the holy irony -- when we set out to encourage someone else, God often flips the script. The giver leaves full. The messenger receives the message.

Maybe today you’re hoping for encouragement. If so, here’s a gentle idea -- be the encourager. Make the call. Write the note. Show up. You might just discover that encouragement is a gift that multiplies the moment it’s shared.

And oh -- it feels so good to be part of God’s delivery system of hope. 💛

#encourage #encourager #encouragement