Encourager Coaches: The Little Things We Do Are Very Important!

During this Christmas Season and throughout the year, it is not hard to find Leaders in our ministry who are struggling under a burden of stress, broken family relationships, loneliness, identity crisis or any other number of issues. Seeing others in distress in seemingly impossible situations can tug unmercifully on one's heartstrings and even trigger codependency issues among friends and fellow Recovery Leaders. The desire to help is a very strong motivator when others are in pain. Yet, in reality, we can't fix the problem. We can, however, provide support and encouragement during those difficult seasons.

In my years of ministry, I have been amazed time and time again by individuals who are EXTREMELY grateful for a card that arrived at just the right moment, or a quick phone call during a moment of crisis. I had no idea at the time that such a little thing would be so helpful and encouraging.

Years ago, my husband and I were dealing with a difficult relative at a funeral. Smiles and polite conversation were doing nothing to bridge the gap between us. At one point, my husband had the creative idea to purchase a replacement bulb for a burned out tail-light on his van. It was such a little thing, but he was so amazed that we would help him in that way. He didn't even know that his light was burned out. That gesture warmed our relationship immediately and brought down some walls between us.

Some individuals around us are obviously in need of encouragement, but many hide their struggles behind a smile. Our means of "reaching out to others" is unlimited. There was a young lady in our church who thanked me profusely when I left an encouraging note on her facebook page. Use YOUR creativity and listen to the Holy Spirit as He leads you. The opportunities to reach out and encourage those around us are many. The smile we share, the prayer we pray, or the call we make can give hope where there is none!

Remember that those little things you do to encourage and support others is very important. When you get a nudge to reach out, follow through. Don't dismiss that nudge! God is up to something and He wants to use you!!

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