99/100 #SoWillI #Inspired

Someone I loved watching just committed suicide, he was a great dancer and a co host in one of the biggest shows in America. He is confirmed to have taken his own life. I have basically refused to believe that is true, in fact I keep waiting to hear that he was murmured, that will make more sense. He encouraged so many people, he made so many people smile, he was the joy in every room and on our screens. I am not sure about his faith in God, so I wont talk about it. I will stick to what I know. The news has shocked everyone who knew him, it is so unlikely that someone who encouraged everybody had no one to go to for encouragement when he needed help. I heard someone say a very risky statement: ‘If Twitch killed himself, then we are all capable of doing it’

The face of depression and mental health problems has just changed its face. The people who are always happy, always there for others, always looking strong, always ready to help, always smiling; also need encouragement. Many times we look at those who look miserable, those who are physically emaciated, and imagine they are depressed. I call them the ‘One’, the one who is seemingly lost, yet the 99 are all looking found and okay. Yet suffering from within.

Personally, I can count the number of times strangers have kept me strong on my feet. When I have felt like quitting ministry, when I have felt overwhelmed and discouraged, I have found messages in my inbox that have reminded me why I started doing what I do. It goes a long way, even for the happy strong people around you.

People are going through a lot on these streets. Some marriages are in dark corners, children are going through depression and stress, young people are unemployed and losing hope each day, families are toxic, the cost of living is overwhelming for so many households. Some people don’t even know where to go for therapy. You are the one who is near them, you are the one who is available, you don’t need to have any special words of comfort, all you need is the Holy Spirit. Please, encourage someone, especially those who don’t look like they need it.

Today I would like to encourage you to encourage the encourager around you. They may seem to have it all figured out, but your word of encouragement might go a long way. That pastor who has been looking smart and strong the whole year, reach out and encourage, call and pray for them. That colleague who is always loud! Call them aside and pray with them, encourage them and let them know that they can talk to you about anything. (Make sure its appropriate too, you can also send someone more appropriate to do it.) Well, I had to say that before a married man starts holding a single ladies hand for support. Please encourage someone who doesn’t look like they need it.

While at it, remind them that God loves them. While at it, talk to them about Jesus. While at it, direct them to our God who never fails. While at it, do good.

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Galatians 6:9-10

~ Selah