The Power of Thumbs & Words

Words matter in our lives.  What is said to us and about us shape us.  From the nurturing words of a mother to a son, the encouragement of a coach to an athlete or acceptance letter from a company to a new hire...as people we care about what is said.

In our home we have a phrase we remind each other of often;

WHAT YOU SAY, is as important as HOW YOU SAY IT.

Words, tone, body language, eye contact, emphasized moments and so much more give us layers of communication.  Investing yourself in a person's life, in their conversations & being fully present when you are with them allows healthy relationships to be built.  

Here are images of two text conversations that recently happened in my world.  The affirmation & encouragement in these few words were life filling for me.  What does it look like for us today to speak, text & show the care we have for those around us?

From an 18 year old

From a co-worker & friend

Good Bye Doesn't Always Include Tears.

This past Sunday, March 2nd was the last night I had with my adult volunteer team & students whom I've had the joy of pastoring for the last 6 years of ministry.  One of the leaders gathered words the students would use to describe me. The words were hung around the room and that was very filling for my heart & soul to see and read.  I'm grateful for the love and care they've extended to me and humbled that Jesus allowed me to pastor them through many aspects of their life.

Instructions for a Bad Day

We all have them.  Sometimes one bad day can shape our week, our month and for many even our lives.  Bad Days bring pain, frustration, exhaustion and often a feeling of "What do I do now?"

Many of you may watch this, but I hope all of you watch it with the intent of listening closely to the words.

Encouragement Attack

Two weeks ago I received a letter from a student that really encouraged me.  I've typed it out & added the image below so you know I'm not faking it.

Hey Danny!

I just wanted to encourage you today & let you know that you are doing a great job! I am extremely thankful for you and Kim helping me navigate how I can start using my spiritual gift of discernment.  I have never felt this much purpose in my role in SOUL (our high school ministry) before I started doing all of this.  It has also brought me a lot closer to God, and carving out lots of time for Him has become something that I desire. I also encourage you to not let yourself or pride get in the way as God tries to accomplish His plans and goals through your life.  I am praying that you would seek God's wisdom and direction first and foremost as you lead our student ministry.  As I was reading & journaling today the word "today" kept popping up in my mind.  How can our ministry impact people today and as individuals how can we impact someone today?  God releases each moment and day for us to enjoy and live it the fullest.  Living for TODAY also calls us to no worry about tomorrow or the future because God is already there.  God wants us to to live rich and satisfying lives! (John 10:10) The reason why I told you about the whole TODAY thing is because I thought that i might help you as you try and balance your time.  Also, (now i could be very wrong...) I could see it as being an interesting series. Any ways, I hope that you have a great week and keep up the good work!

People encourage those around you, it'll do wonders for their SOUL.  If you're in ministry call up another ministry partner or leader and encourage them because they probably need it, I know I did when I got this letter!