Encourage

Ephesians 4:29

29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 

Earlier this week Pastor Jason called a somewhat impromptu minister's meeting (he did give us 24 hours notice).  My immediate thought, as I would guess many of my co-workers' initial thought, was "what's wrong."  In my nearly three years of serving on staff at Living Hope, there haven't been many meetings called in this manner.  I didn't spend much time conjecturing on the reason for the meeting, but a few topics crossed my mind.

When I arrived at the Tuesday morning meeting, I soon realized that Jason had called a meeting to simply brag on one of our pastors.  Jason said that many times he focuses on what is not being done at LHBC instead of celebrating the great accomplishments.  Soon others shared of how other staff members had help assist in ways that go far beyond a job description. 

In that thirty minutes I was reminded of what great people I'm privileged to serve with and also reminded to be more optimistic.  It is my prayer that I will see the good in situations and that my words be uplifting, for often I am critical, harsh, and too lax in giving encouragement to others.  May we all be reminded of Ephesians 4:29 as we daily strive to encourage and build up others.

Allen Cothran

Technical Ministries Director