Month: June 2024

Build Each Other Up: 10 Benefits of Encouragement

On By barrysnotesLeave a comment

In our challenging and fast-paced world a simple word of encouragement can be a powerful force Encouragement not only lifts spirits but also fosters an environment where individuals can thrive. I Thessalonians 5:11 urges us, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

Your simple word of encouragement can change the course of someone’s day, and in some cases, even impact the direction of their lives. Here are ten significant benefits of encouragement:

  1. Strengthens relationships. Offering encouragement can strengthen bonds between friends, family members, and colleagues. It shows that we care and are invested in the other person’s success and well-being, fostering deeper and more meaningful connections.

  2. Boosts confidence. Encouragement helps build self-esteem and confidence. When someone believes in us, it reinforces our belief in ourselves. This can lead to greater self-assurance and a willingness to take on new challenges.

  3. Enhances effectiveness. Positive reinforcement is a well-known motivator. Encouragement can significantly improve performance in both personal and professional settings. Whether it’s a pat on the back for a job well done or a pep talk before a big presentation, knowing someone is in our corner can drive us to excel.

  4. Inspires positive thinking. Encouragement cultivates a positive mindset. It shifts our focus from problems to possibilities, helping us approach situations with optimism and a can-do attitude.

  5. Nurtures resilience. Life is full of setbacks and failures. Encouragement helps build resilience, allowing us to bounce back from disappointments. It reminds us that failure is not the end, but a steppingstone to success.

  6. Promotes personal growth. Encouragement often pushes us out of our comfort zones, prompting personal growth and development. It inspires us to set higher goals, pursue new opportunities, and strive for continuous improvement.

  7. Improves mental health. Regular encouragement can have a significant impact on mental health. It reduces feelings of anxiety and depression, providing a sense of support and belonging. Knowing that someone believes in us can alleviate stress and promote emotional well-being.

  8. Fosters teamwork. In a team setting, encouragement boosts morale and builds a collaborative spirit. It helps team members feel valued and appreciated, leading to better cooperation and a more harmonious work environment.

  9. Fuels creativity. Encouragement stimulates creativity by providing a safe space for ideas to flourish. When we feel supported, we’re more likely to think outside the box and take creative risks without fear of judgment.

  10. Creates a ripple effect. Encouragement is contagious. When we receive encouragement, we’re more likely to pass it on to others. This creates a ripple effect, spreading positivity and inspiration throughout our communities.

Encouragement is a tangible expression of Christ’s love. Jesus consistently offered words of comfort, hope, and affirmation to his followers. As Jesus’ disciples, we are called to mirror that same love to others. In John 13:34-35, Jesus commands us, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Through encouragement, we demonstrate the love of Christ and bear witness to his grace and compassion.

Encouragement is one important way to bring out the best in others. And when encouragment offered, it tends to build up the recipient and the benefactor.

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor at the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches. You can follow him on Twitter at @BarrysNotes.)

Let the Sunshine In: Reflections on the Summer Solstice

On By barrysnotesLeave a comment

Margaret Atwood writes, “This is the solstice, the still point of the sun, its cusp and midnight, the year’s threshold and unlocking, where the past lets go of and becomes the future; the place of caught breath, the door of a vanished house left ajar…”

A part of the mystery and majesty of God’s great big, wonderful world is the circuitous rhythm of the sun, moon, and stars suspended in space.

The summer solstice highlights the incredible cadence and beauty of God’s creation. It occurs when one of the earth’s poles has its maximum tilt toward the sun. It happens twice yearly, once in each hemisphere. Occurring between June 20 and 22 in the Northern Hemisphere, the summer solstice is the day with the longest daylight and a day that marks the official start of summer. This year, the summer solstice happens on June 20, which is the earliest occurrence since 1796.

This annual event invites us to reflect on the light, warmth, and example that nature provides, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Here are a few pastoral reflections on the summer solstice:

  • The rhythm of God’s creation is inspiring. The summer solstice is a testament to the meticulous design of God’s creation. The earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun result in varying amounts of daylight throughout the year, and on this day, we experience the maximum daylight. It’s a time to marvel at the natural world, from the vibrant blooms in our gardens to the extended daylight that allows us to enjoy God’s creation longer each day.
  • Summer is a season of light. Light is a powerful symbol in our faith. In John 8:12, Jesus says, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” As we enjoy the abundant sunlight of the summer solstice, we can also reflect on the spiritual light that Jesus brings into our lives. His light guides us, dispels the darkness, and brings clarity and hope.

  • Growth is necessary to sustain life. Summer is often a time of growth and renewal in the natural world. Gardens flourish, trees are full of leaves, and the earth teems with life. This season of growth can serve as a metaphor for our spiritual journey. Just as plants need sunlight, water, and nutrients to grow, we need the nourishment of God’s love, the refreshment of God’s presence, and the fellowship of God’s people to thrive in our faith.

  • Tempo is part of God’s design. The summer solstice also provides us with opportunities to slow down and reflect. Longer days mean more time to enjoy the beauty of creation, spend time with loved ones, and engage in activities that rejuvenate our spirits. It’s a wonderful time to connect with God through outdoor activities, a scenic drive, or simply sitting in nature and meditating on God’s goodness and grace.

  • We are called to be joyful and responsible stewards of creation. As we appreciate the beauty and abundance of summer, let us also be reminded of our role as caretakers of God’s world. Genesis 2:15 tells us, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” We are called to care for the earth, ensuring that its resources are preserved and its beauty is maintained for future generations.

The summer solstice showcases the divine rhythm and meticulous design of God’s world. And the extended days of summer invite us to slow down and savor the beauty around us.

It’s a fitting season to reflect on God’s goodness and grace, and to let the sunshine in.

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor of the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches. You can follow him on Twitter at @BarrysNotes.)

7 Ways to Build Bridges Over the Great Divide

On By barrysnotesLeave a comment

In a world that feels dangerously divided, followers of Jesus can be proactive and intentional about building bridges over the chasm of our differences. Our faith calls us to be peacemakers, to love our neighbors, and to cultivate unity in our churches and communities.

The Greek philosopher Aesop was the first of many to declare, “United we stand, divided we fall.”

Divisiveness seems to be the primary tool in the arsenal of the adversary. A sports team that is divided seldom wins. A nation that is divided internally is at risk of falling prey to external enemies. A church that is divided diminishes its effectiveness.

How can we bridge the cultural, spiritual, and political rifts that divide us? Here are a few ways we can foster understanding and harmony within our community:

1. Listen actively and attentively. Listening is a powerful act of love. By listening carefully to each other’s stories, we gain insight into different thoughts and experiences that have shaped the other person’s perspective. This requires us to listen without interrupting or preparing a clever retort. It means that we listen to learn and to seek a better understanding of their viewpoint. Empathetic listening can dissolve barriers and foster deeper connections.

2. Respect diversity. Our differences are not just to be tolerated but respected. Each person brings unique gifts and perspectives that enrich our community. Treasure the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and viewpoints within our church, recognizing that diversity reflects the beautiful tapestry of God’s creation. My long-time friend and neighbor, Dow Birkhimer, a retired Lieutenant Colonel, often said to me, “If you and I agree on everything, one of us is not needed.”

3. Engage in open and honest conversations. Creating a safe space for open dialogue is essential. Encouraging honest discussions about our differences, whether they be cultural, theological, or personal, allows us to address misunderstandings and misconceptions. Unity of spirit does not require uniform agreement on every issue. Approach these conversations with an open mind, a spirit of humility, and a willingness to learn.

4. Look for common ground. While differences can sometimes be front page news, it is helpful to focus on the common ground we share. Our faith in Jesus Christ, our commitment to love and serve others, and our commitment to work for the common good are powerful unifying factors. Focusing on these shared values can strengthen our bonds.

5. Practice grace and forgiveness. We all make mistakes and sometimes say or do things that hurt others. Practicing forgiveness and extending grace are crucial in maintaining unity. Be quick to forgive and generous with grace, reflecting the love that Jesus has demonstrated for us.

6. Serve together. Working side by side in service to others can break down walls and build bridges. Whether it is through local outreach programs, mission trips, or community projects, serving together helps us see beyond our differences and unite in our common goal of spreading God’s love. When we serve together, our souls tend to bond, enabling us to trust each other’s motives, even when we think differently about many issues.

7. Pray for unity. Prayer is a powerful tool in bridging divides. Commit to praying for unity within your church and beyond. Ephesians 4:3 urges us to “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Pray for God to soften hearts, open minds, and guide us in building relationships that are seasoned with grace and love.

Divisiveness is a tool of the enemy, not a fruit of the Spirit. As we become rooted and grounded in our faith, we are not an easy target for the tempter’s snare.

In John 17:21, Jesus prayed, “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”

Jimmy Carter hit the nail on the head when he said, “The bond of our common humanity is stronger than the divisiveness of our fears and prejudices.”

In our attitudes and actions, we are either building bridges or driving wedges. Don’t join the demolition crew! Build more bridges!

For more information about building bridges, contact the Center for Healthy Churches to learn about R12, a new set of tools designed to help congregations understand, assess, and respond to political and cultural polarization. (www.chchurches.org)

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor of the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches. You can follow him on Twitter at @BarrysNotes.)