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Why Everyone Needs An Encouragement Folder

by | Faith | 7 comments

by Cathy Baker

I remember the day I created my Encouragement Folder. I’d not been writing very long when my mom surprised me by emailing her friends and family a copy of something I’d done. Soon afterwards, she forwarded a response she’d received from her cousin, Marie, to me.

As I read Marie’s email, the words soon became murky for all the tears. You see, just one day prior, I’d asked God for specific confirmation concerning my writing. Because Marie took the time to share words of encouragement, one wobbly kneed writer became strengthened. 

This week, I had a similar experience and was once again reminded of why everyone needs an Encouragement Folder. Writers, mothers, employees, ministry leaders, _______, etc. Fill in the blank because it’s a fact that you’ll be stirred up (Hebrews 10:24), strengthened (Acts 15:32), and grace-filled (Ephesians 4:29) if you’re the recipient of divine encouragement. It’s no wonder the enemy attempts to snatch up such a powerful stirring! 

Enter, the Encouragement Folder. If When you receive a word of encouragement that stimulates you spiritually, act on it immediately. Jot it down or record it either online or in a snazzy folder (see above!) You may be surprised by how God uses another person’s words from years ago to stir you towards the future. 

Consider how to stir up one another to love and good works. Hebrews 10:24
So, here’s the pressing question: How can we help others fill up their folders? The word “consider” means to turn over in one’s mind. Encouraging others oftentimes requires thought. I have much to learn but here’s how turning it over works itself out in my mind:
1. Pray. I ask the Lord to help me see others with His eyes. He alone knows the deepest needs of those He places around us on any given day. 
2. Observe. I’ve prayed to see, I believe He will answer. Now, I watch and observe how He leads. 
3. Obey. Sometimes I feel certain of the person whom God wants me encourage or what the person may need (someone to pray with, a note, a hug, help in some tangible way, etc.) but this isn’t always the case. And that’s okay. God’s got it! I simply need to be obedient to what I sense God is leading me to do and then trust Him with the results.
How about you? Whose Encouragement Folder will expand today because we took the time to write them words of encouragement?
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, 
just as you are doing.1 Thessalonians 5:11

When Encouragement Travels in a Teacup

7 Comments

  1. Edie Melson
    Edie Melson on April 22, 2014 at 12:26 am

    Cathy, I don't have a folder, but I keep all the notes people send me about my writing and about the time I spend teaching about writing. I have one ripped piece of paper above my desk, though. It's from a former critique partner. She took time to write out what she thought about my writing and how she imagined God would use it in the future. That hastily penned bit of encouragement has gotten me through many a tough day. Thanks for the reminder!

    Reply
  2. Kim Vanderpoel
    Kim Vanderpoel on April 22, 2014 at 12:32 am

    Cathy–I love the idea of an encouragement folder…and am putting that on my "to do" list! I just love coming to your blog site–your words are "confetti sprinkles" to my day!

    Reply
  3. cathy.baker
    cathy.baker on April 22, 2014 at 12:44 am

    Thanks for sharing, Edie!

    We never know how our words will encourage another…like how yours have encouraged me tonight. 🙂

    Reply
  4. cathy.baker
    cathy.baker on April 22, 2014 at 12:46 am

    Kim, I love your visits as well. Thanks so much.

    Confetti sprinkles? OK, my day has been made. 🙂

    Much love to you from SC!

    Reply
  5. Ellen Andersen
    Ellen Andersen on April 22, 2014 at 2:00 am

    I've had someone on my mind who may need encouragement. This could be a nudge in that direction!

    Reply
  6. Come Go Home With Me
    Come Go Home With Me on April 22, 2014 at 2:17 am

    Cathy, I have a card from you on my bulletin board that I look at every day. Annie Grace said to tell you that you are always there for her.:)

    Reply
  7. cathy.baker
    cathy.baker on April 22, 2014 at 11:57 am

    Oh sweet Dee! Tell Annie Grace hello for me. I'm one of her biggest fans. 🙂

    Love you!

    Reply

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