The Gift of Encouragement
I’m kinda quiet at times, especially in large groups. I’m a bit of an introvert that way. So navigating the whole blogging world is still somewhat of a challenge to me because even in the privacy of my home, behind the safety of my computer screen I’m still the girl who although she loves the Lord, loves to share him, loves to laugh, talk and voice her opinions, still find it easier to do so in small familiar groups…
Staying in a comfort zone is easy for me but ever so often God allows me to meet up with people who encourage me to go beyond my comfort zone. One such person is our dear Iris. I think it was about six years ago that I met Iris. I don’t know if she visited my blog first or I visited hers but I know that over the years I’ve known her she has been such an encourager.
I remember her encouraging me to join the Christian Women’s blog ring, to participate in different memes like, In Other Words and to share my writing more. She especially encouraged me with my poetry. Poetry is my choice writing form to record the highs and lows of life so it’s always more difficult to share than any other writings. However whenever I would share a poem on my blog there always seem to be a beautiful comment, like the one below, from Iris shortly after…(Hope you don’t mind me sharing my friend)
Your poems are always beautiful, Bernadine. You should really put them together in a book 🙂
Then in 2007 after knowing me for a relatively short time she gave me an opportunity to write for Laced With Grace. This again pushed me beyond my comfort zone of mainly writing for a teen girl audience. I never thought I’d last this long at it but somehow, even though I neglect my own blog for long periods of time when the LWG schedule comes out, I find myself in front of the computer asking God to give me something to share because I don’t want to disappoint someone who has been such a blessing in my life.
I had no real plan to write about Iris when I sat down however, what better place to honor someone I respect so much than on the platform she gave me access to, a place that brings women of all ages and stages in life together for a common purpose to encourage each other in the Lord.
Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more,
running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back. Luke 6:38 (NLT)
Dear Iris, you have given generously from the heart to others, to encourage them in ministry and in life. I pray in the words of the scripture above that when you need it most your gift (of encouragement) will return to you. May God bless you and keep you as you continue to do His Work.
Goodness, Bernadine, you made me cry at 5am…
You are a beautiful woman of God and it is wonderful to read your poems and writings. I am very thankful that you have joined the team years ago and are still with us. You are a blessing to this community of women that follow Jesus.
What a beautiful post! I would agree with her and add you have the same gift to encourage others!
Bernadine, you and Iris, are both such precious blessings. I love you both.
Bernadine,
Amen and I echo each word. Iris, was one of my very first online friends and I count her a rich blessing and a priceless friendship. Bernadine, I say that about yo as well. Hugging you both. Love, Lynn
How appropriate that my anti-spam word is Love! This beautiful tribute overflows with the love of one sister in Christ for another. Encouraging words are always a healing balm in a world throwing fiery darts. Every word you said, sweet sister, I say Amen! Iris, I love you, too and appreciate you and your humble servant leadership of our team.
Hi Bernadine,
What a wonderful tribute to your friend Iris. It’s a wonderful thing how the Lord blesses us with special people He puts in our life.
Bernadine, I often find myself being in the role of extrovert, but the funny thing is that I have always been drawn to people who have more introvert qualities. My husband and I are opposites, me the extrovert and him the introvert :o)
Bernadine, great post!
God bless you friend`
Sending you a big hug~ Michele
Reading this today blessed me, seeing that this is one of the gifts that I operate in naturally. We are counselors to the body, we bring His word which brings healing and delivers those who need deliverence. Every encourager needs an encourager and I thank you for writing this piece because it encouraged me.
God Bless