The Power of Encouragement...

The meet began at 3:30. By the time I had collected children, my spouse and made the drive we arrived at 4pm. We didn't know what time his race was. Sometimes it's the first and sometimes the last. I get there as fast as I can and trust God with the details. He knows what I can and can't do. But on this day, we made it. His was the next race. The path wove and twisted along a hill, a trail and along a bend that licked the lake waters. When we first arrived we stopped along side the trail to see what group was running. As we saw kids from my sons team we yelled encouraging words to them, "Looking good, Rams!" Or ""Dig deep, finish strong, you're almost there!" Not only did the kids lift their weary chins, we noticed other parents begin to chip in and shout encouragements as well.

Encouragement is Contagious...

Now, what I also want to mention is this. If you don't know my husband or aren't around him much you may think him friendly, but somewhat quiet. He is conversationally engaging, but not quick to speak. He is thoughtful with his word choices. But when he does speak, it penetrates deep and puts people on the edge of their seat. He knows his voice is loud and can carry far. So even though we couldn't see my son on the bend of the road-John knew his voice could still be heard so he stood alone, looking into the unknown, calling out in his deep, booming voice, my sons name along with encouragements and praise. For at least 10 minutes before we saw him yoke the curve my husband called to his son. My son rose with pride-the good kind that makes you feel alive- and he quickened his pace and he ran his race because he knew how proud his father was.

Isn't this a portrait of God? He sees us even when we can't be seen. Every bend in the road and blind curve he is out in front of us calling our name, searching for us, inspiring us, praising us and directing us. He sees what we cannot and guides us through every blind spot when we listen for his voice.

With proper love and encouragement others rise. They feel valued, valuable and a part of something bigger than themselves. So they run.

Run your race with all of your might. God is around that bend, cheering your name, looking for you, waiting for you, praising you to the finish.
-Nicole

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight." Prov. 3:5-6