Just Show Up

Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.

As Terri walked into the sanctuary, I gasped, surprised to see my friend. She approached me, smiling.

“You came,” I said, as we hugged.

“Of course,” she said. “I wouldn’t miss it.”

My throat clenched with emotion as I thanked her. Just a few weeks earlier I’d mentioned to my Bible study that I was nervous for my first speaking engagement. I knew God wanted me to start ministering to other women, but I was still hesitant to do something new, especially in front of others.

“What if they hate it?” I’d asked. “Or what if I’m not any good?”

As the women encouraged me and prayed for me, I shared with them more details about where I’d be speaking and the time. Unbeknownst to me, Terri had taken note. And the morning of the event, she showed up and sat in the front row.

As I got up to speak, my knees were weak and my mouth was dry, but there sat my friend, smiling at me, letting me know she was already proud before I even spoke a word. To this day, all I can remember of the audience is her. She was the encouragement and support that I needed, and I am still so grateful that she came.

We all need people in our lives like Terri. Ones that will show up for us when we need a friend. Ones who’ll listen and support us when we really need it. Worry really can weigh us down, making us feel like we are alone, but an encouraging word not only cheers us up, but reminds us that there is someone there with us.

Kendra

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Who is someone that has shown up for you at a critical moment? Send them a note of thanks. And who may need a friend to show up for them? Take time to reach out and encourage them.