I’ve been troubled these last several weeks at the lack of kindness I see more often towards others. Many times, people around us need just a simple word of encouragement or a kind smile to help brighten their day. More will be coming on this topic, but for this week I’d like to issue a challenge!
I’m issuing the 12/25 Challenge, and it’s based on Proverbs 12:25 (NASB), Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad.
For the next seven days, I want you to seek out three people every day, stranger or friend, to encourage. This encouragement could be in the form of a compliment on something they’re wearing or how great their smile is. It can be asking them how their sick relative is and then genuinely listening to the answer. How about a hug or a handshake and telling them it’s great to see them today (and really meaning it)?! Perhaps you can pick up the tab on a bagel or a coffee? It shouldn’t take any more than a few minutes out of your day. Then as you walk away from the encounter, lift that person up in prayer. Ask God to bless them and watch over them and that they would feel God’s love surround them in a tangible way.
I believe you’ll find this not only blesses them but yourself, as well. I know that I need this. I need to be more aware of the people around me and see them the way Jesus sees them, so I’ll be doing the 12/25 Challenge right alongside you.
Join me this week, and share how you were able to change the day of someone around you in the comments below!
~Erin
Iron Porch 