We invite you to take a peek inside our weekly Light for the Way devotional series provided for staff.
By Pastor Keith Perry, Orchard Path and Valley Ridge
There are always many choices in life to make: which school to attend, who we will marry if we decide to do that, where to live, and so on. But there is also another very important choice we can make in life: to be an “encourager” or a “discourager.”
I myself have encountered both of these, and likely so have you. The difference? It’s like night and day! The encourager comes alongside us and lifts us up, through their words and/or actions, or at times, just by their mere presence. The discourager, on the other hand, does just the opposite. They tend to say or do something that brings down our spirits and makes us feel unworthy.
The Apostle Paul wrote to a very young church in Thessalonica, giving them instructions on various aspects of church life as well as their personal lives. One of the things he emphasized was this: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” What were some of the ways the church was there to accomplish this? Paul told them to “be joyful,” “give thanks,” “pray,” and “hold on to the good.” (See 1 Thessalonians 5.)
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary says it this way when it comes to encouraging someone: “give support, confidence, or hope to someone” and “to inspire with courage, spirit, or hope.”
I have a suggestion for us. Think about the people around you who need some encouragement. Try to pay attention and notice what their needs are. Then, make a conscious effort to reach out to them in an encouraging way. It could be a kind and supportive word, a helpful action or just taking time to be present with them and listen to them. After all, we would surely also appreciate the same encouragement from others when we need it.
Let’s all choose to be “encouragers” and not “discouragers.” That choice promises to make a huge difference not only in our own lives, but also in the lives of others around us.
May our loving God continue to richly bless all our PHS residents and staff!
About Campus Pastor Keith Perry: I began serving as campus pastor with PHS in August of 2021, after a brief retirement from hospice chaplaincy and parish ministry. I currently live in Chaska, MN with my wife, and we have two grown sons and six grandchildren. When I’m not busy with campus work, I like to hear live music and watch sports.
The Light for the Way series provides staff with an examination of a biblical reading to deepen our focus on scripture. Thank you for engaging with this series as we seek wisdom through prayer and reflection as a Christian Ministry.
Find more in the Light for the Way series:
Love one another
Get to know us: a Christian ministry
Introducing Light for the Way, a new devotional series
