Have you ever shared your heart with someone about a dream of yours only to find out that they weren't particularly enthused about it?
Perhaps you've dreamed about being an actor on TV or of owning your own business. Whatever the dream, it is vert important that you share it with the right people.
I had a teacher in High School that made a lasting impression on my life. She was such an encourager. When I considered applying for a music scholarship at Akron University, she not only believed I could get the scholarship - she drove me to the appointment!
As I have journeyed through life, I've met many "discouragers" as well. These are the people who always tell you why you can't attempt the task at hand. They're reluctant to lend their support to something they think will end up being a flop.
Usually, those people have had some devastating events transpire in their lives and as a result they discourage anyone with a big dream - for fear that they'll be disappointed if it doesn't work out.
Praise God for the ENCOURAGERS! I've met some wonderful ones in my life! Spending time with them is such a joy...the discouragers are soon forgotten. These are the people you want to surround yourself with. They exemplify many of the following traits:
1. Modeling - encouragers don't just talk the talk...they walk the walk. They are living examples of encouragement themselves. They've learned how to "take a lickin' and keep on tickin'!"
2. Listening - although an encourager can give you lots of good advice that will spark your heart - they also know how to "hear" what you're really saying from your heart. You feel compelled to spill your life story to them - knowing they're going to be objective and sincere.
3. Truthfulness - an encourager will tell you the truth, not just what you want to hear. They will point out some blind spots that should be considered and factor in the positives as well.
4. Revealing - an encourager will get you to pour out your deepest dreams on the table then examine what's been holding you back from fulfilling your dreams.
5. Inspiring - an encourager will inspire you to start where you are - even though you haven't got it all figured out yet. They will help you see that you don't have to be perfect to begin. They know that your "gift" or "craft" will develop over time - but unless you start now, chances are you'll never start.
Again, I'm very thankful to have had some great encouragers in my life!
Reflect today on the people that have encouraged you along the way. Ask yourself, "am I an encourager or a discourager?"
