Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Building Up!


This week Pastor Mark spoke about 'Affirming Together' in the continuation of his series, 'Let's Get Personal'. The idea here is that we are called to encourage one another, and that part of building relationships with each other is building each other up!

As an example, I shared in my Life Group last night about a time I was encouraged. See, I spent 10 years working part or full-time for a McDonald's franchise in Santa Barbara, from my junior year of High School until I was 27 years old. I began as your average crew worker and worked my way up into middle management, then carved out a unique role for myself as a Training Coordinator and Specialist, helping launch new stores.

When I decided to move on into a new career path, the amazing people who owned and operated this franchise honored me at a manager's conference, presenting me with the plaque you see above. It hangs in my office to this day!

My point? That encouragement, which was both verbal and tangible, has impacted me forever in a powerful way. It not only gave me the courage to move forward in my professional life, but it also inspired me to grow more like those who were giving the encouragement, people who are among the most admired in my life.

As you spend time sharing life together in your group, I'd challenge you to pause and ask yourself, 'How can I give this kind of thoughtful, tangible and authentic encouragement to others?' You'll be glad you did!

No comments:

Post a Comment