Who am I? A wife for almost 40 years. A mom for over 36 years. A sister and a friend, of course. Each of these help describe me. But, even more, I have been a Christian since accepting Him as my Savior when I was 12 years old and, this truth defines each area of my life. I have enjoyed some mountain top experiences but have been through some very deep valleys as well. Valleys of incredible grief and even pits of depression. However, most of my days are ordinary, routine kind of days. But in every one of my days, God has been faithful. He has walked with me whatever the day. He strengthens, comforts, encourages and blesses me with life "most abundant."

A favorite life verse: The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10

Why do I write? Though not quite as private as my dad, I am definitely my father's daughter. I find it difficult to share. And to let others in. But I do love to write. I love to put words into sentences and sentences in paragraphs that help express my thoughts. I hope my words help me share my heart. Share the life that God has given me and all that He has done for me and through me. I write with the hope of giving Him at least a bit of the glory He is due.

A verse to guide my writing: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ. I Peter 1:7

Encourage Someone To Shine

Posted on By jennifer

I had a special afternoon recently.  I had lunch with two “old” friends.  My friends aren’t old but our friendship is one we enjoyed years ago – when our children were all very young – but life carried us in many different directions.  Now, we are all in completely different places but are once again in proximity.  Our friendship is rekindling and I am enjoying the blend of memories and new times.

At one point, we all went to church together.  These days, we all go to different churches and all three of us have (relatively) new to us pastors.  Over lunch, we talked – among so many things – about new churches, changing churches and the change in churches.  The older I get, the more I tend to struggle with change.  I try to listen and to observe change with an open mind but will admit, I’m not always successful with that.

While discussing different preaching styles, one friend noted (with a heavy sigh), “No one really preaches holiness anymore.  The call for it.  What it means to live holy lives….to “come out from among them and be separate” and just how needful it is.”  We all sighed.  I know that is a blanket statement but I knew what she meant.  Not only do so many Christians simply want to blend in with the world, but there is seems to be little to no encouragement for those who would want to do otherwise.

But I believe God wants us to stand out.  To be not only a witness and a light for Him, but to make an impact.  I like this D.L. Moody quote, “A holy life will make the deepest impression.  Lighthouses blow no horns, they just shine.”  Yes, we share the gospel.  Often, we need to speak up.  But, even more often, we make an impact by simply shining.  Interestingly, even the smallest light shines brightest when darkness deepens.  A small flashlight beam might go unnoticed in a stadium of bright lights.  But in a darkened room, it is a welcomed gift.

My friend did not make this observation to criticize her pastor but was simply observing the challenge she (all of us really) faces to live holy.  That being true, we need to encourage each other.  Whether over chips and salsa, with a quick text or a longer call when needed….we need to encourage one another.  The Bible calls this exhorting one another.  Exhortation is not only needful but helpful – for many things.  But today, who can I encourage to stay strong?  To swim upstream.   To live holy and be a lighthouse.

Tell His Story

Comments (4)

  1. Yes. Exhortation is so necessary. It reminds me of the people who are watching the racers and calling to them to keep going, to run harder and faster. My sister and I will call and exhort one another.

    I like the title of your blog.

    1. Theresa – so glad you found your way to my blog. Thanks for you sweet words…and encouragement:) It must be wonderful to have a regular encouragement – who is also your sister!!

  2. That’s so nice you and your friends can reconnect at this stage in life, Jennifer. Also that you can honestly discuss what’s important. I LOVE that Moody quote! May we be lighthouses that shine the love of Jesus! Love and blessings to you!

    1. Trudy – so glad you stopped by and thanks for your comment! I truly do desire to be a lighthouse!

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