Finding Encouragement

Ever had a day, a week, or even months of just struggles? Then the shame, despair, anxiety, sadness, depression, and many more emotions creep in. This isn't a fun way to live is it? I know if we were to get very honest with one another, we ALL have been in this place at one time or another. With all of the yucky emotions, do you ever find it hard to seek or ask for help? I know that I do. The enemy creeps in and brings on all the shame, so it takes me longer to ask for help or encouragement. 

Sometimes asking for help makes you feel like: a burden, a mess, a failure, hopeless, judged. But what I've been learning is that these are ALL lies from the enemy. Its so easy to fall into this trap. I know I caught myself feeling this way just recently. But after having a couple of spiritually mature mentors and friends just accept me with arms wide open. I saw God's love through them. 

Finding encouragement in others is letting down our own guards and being vulnerable. God places others in our lives so that we can be encouraged and we can encourage others. We are not called to do life alone. I'm not telling you to go out and talk to 20 people about things going on in your life, but find 2 or 3 trusted people who are a step ahead of you and willing to walk life with you. 

Steps to finding encouragement:

1) Find trusted people (2-3 people) to encourage you and you encourage them.

2) Be ready to be open and vulnerable. Even if there are deep pains you don't want to open up. It will be worth it in the end.

3) Find non judgemental Christians who will accept you no matter what. Doesn't matter if you are deep in addiction or just struggling with work. Even Christians are judgemental (guilty), but I do promise they are out there! 

4) Make sure God is in the middle of the relationship! 

5) If the word they are speaking is of God, take it and run with it. But if its not of God use discernment and let it go. 

6) Accept the love they are giving to you through encouragement. I know if you are struggling with low self esteem you don't want to listen, but do! It's most likely a word from the Lord. 

7) Be ready to be challenged through the encouragement. 

8) Don't be too ashamed to seek this type of encouragement. 

9) As you receive encouragement, give it back to others!! 

10) Be open!