The Domino Effect

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

I smiled as I saw the message drop into my inbox. “Dear friends and customers,” it began. “I am pretty sure it has been too hot at your house lately also, so I will not even bring that topic up. We certainly could use rain, but we survived last summer and that was even drier and hotter. On these hot days, we take care to see that the herds have shade in their pastures. All the hogs have mud puddles to cool in. Otherwise things are going just peachy. (Granddaughter Ella says that sometimes.)”

Over the past several years, we’ve bought beef, pork, chicken, and even bison from this local farmer named Tom.

Though I appreciate the ability to purchase products locally, I also appreciate Tom. Whenever we meet up to exchange items, his calm demeanor and his age remind me of my dad, but his personality shines best in his newsletter updates. In every newsy email to his customers, he describes the weather and the rhythms of the season, as well as what’s happening day to day.

Tom’s letters offer a bird’s-eye view of the everyday life of the farm, but what I enjoy most is his evident appreciation for his life. In every line, it’s clear that he cherishes his ability to continue to work the farm and provide something of value for others. This, in turn, spurs my own sense of gratitude. As I read his letter, I’m constantly reminded of how thankful I am for the respect he shows the animals in his care.

Someone else’s gratitude often serves as the fuel that sparks appreciation within our hearts. What we choose to say matters, and the things we focus on will influence what those around us focus on. If we make it a habit to thank God for his many blessings—the day, the food, the sun, a friend, the coffee we hold in our hands—in the presence of others, our focus on gratitude will spill over into them. They, likewise, will be encouraged to thank God.

Scripture reminds us that we sharpen one another, and when we focus on Jesus and encourage others to do the same, it spurs them on in their faith. Let’s continue to find ways to encourage those around us. Let’s carefully consider the words we choose to speak, always seeking to inspire others to live a life of thankfulness.

Kristin

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Ask someone else to tell you what they’re grateful for. Take time to consider how it increases your thanksgiving for something or someone in your life.