Two are Better

This is a work in progress of my grandsons (21mo and 17mo).   They were standing in front of the sink cupboard jabbering back and forth and trying to open the child safety lock.  I took a series of photos and came up with the sketch and this preliminary watercolor.

These two boys are usually in cahoots together.  What one doesn't think of the other will.  What one doesn't climb on, under, or over the other one will.   They actually clap and say 'Yay' for each other.

It would be wonderful if we all worked together like that as Christians.  Lifting each other up and over trials, challenging each other to do more for God and cheering for one another's accomplishments.  Barnabas is one of my favorite people in the Bible, his name meant encourager.

The complete scripture of Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reads, "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up."  Jesus sent out his disciples in pairs (Mark 6).  This shows us we do need to depend on other Christians.  We are part of the army of God and no soldier should stand alone.

When someone says,'would you pray for ______."  Do it right then.  Don't wait - if you're like me I may forget.  A short prayer, a hug, or arm around the shoulder, can lift an enormous burden. When someone shares a worry or trial, give encouragement and a scripture if you can.  You don't have to quote it word for word, but let them know God cares. I'm amazed how someone will tell me later that those were the words or scripture they needed right then.   Of course, it wasn't me, it was the Holy Spirit in me that gave those words.

We are never forsaken by God, he is always with us (Hebrews 13:5), so if you don't have immediate words of  encouragement, just listen.  Sometimes listening is all someone needs.  If God wants you to speak - then the words will come.

Be a Barnabas today, encourage someone.
Laura