Focus: Think about such things - Sherry Crossley
The older I get the more I realize that everyone has a story. It’s easy to see a sister-in-Christ and think she has it all together or that her life is in some way “charmed”.
One of my many hopes for this blog, is that you’ll come to know some of our women’s stories, you’ll get a better appreciation for the idea that we really are all in this together, and that we ALL need encouragement from our sisters sometimes.
The word encouragement means the act of giving someone support, confidence or hope. I’ve heard it described quite literally to mean the act of putting courage into someone else.
I don’t know where I would be if it weren’t for the women who encouraged me. As the oldest, on a farm with my dad and sisters, I didn’t have a mom regularly there during those tough teen years. BUT, I did have coaches who poured into me, youth volunteers who encouraged me and aunts who helped plan birthday parties and back-to-school shop. As a new mom, struggling with postpartum depression, I often felt heavy, hopeless and filled with guilt. BUT I did have support of MOPS women who brought me meals and mentor moms who rocked my fussy baby so I could find hope for tomorrow in some much needed sleep. As I walk through child rearing with deadly food allergies and difficult learning disabilities that often have us in full homework meltdown, I sometimes feel defeated and heartbroken. BUT I am blessed with many women who have come before me and who are willing to help, teach, encourage and pray. I am forever grateful for the women who walk alongside me, helping me grow along the way and Jesus, who in those times just picks me up and carries me.
When I think of Biblical characters, I think of Paul as a master of encouragement. He endured so much and yet spent his final breaths pouring into generations to come. One of my life verses, Philippians 4:8, comes from some of the last words written to his much loved friends and supporters in the Philippian church. He writes,
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
He goes on to say that if we follow his example, the GOD OF PEACE will be with us! Isn’t that good? When you’re feeling sorry for yourself, Philippians 4:8. When you’re slipping into despair, Philippians 4:8. When your mom leaves you or being a mother yourself isn’t what you expected, Philippians 4:8. I’ve had to memorize this verse and I’ve rehearsed it countless times when I start to spin my wheels over worry, loneliness anger, etc. etc. etc.
I want to ENCOURAGE you, to memorize Philippians 4:8 this week. Ponder each of those adjectives: True, Noble, Right, Pure, Lovely, Admirable, Excellent, Praiseworthy. What is true? What lies do you need to replace with God's truth? What is Noble? How can we think on and behave in a way that is "noble"? And so on.
If you’ve got a moment, grab your Bible and read all of Philippians 4. Let Paul’s encouragement seep into who you are. If you have a sister who has been Jesus’ hands and feet, I want to ENCOURAGE you, to call her, write her a note, or boldly name her in the comments below. If you have a scripture verse that has been a source of encouragement, post in the comments so we might all be encouraged in Christ together!
If you’ve got a moment, grab your Bible and read all of Philippians 4. Let Paul’s encouragement seep into who you are. If you have a sister who has been Jesus’ hands and feet, I want to ENCOURAGE you, to call her, write her a note, or boldly name her in the comments below. If you have a scripture verse that has been a source of encouragement, post in the comments so we might all be encouraged in Christ together!
Many Blessings to you, Sweet Sisters! I’m grateful for you and excited to be growing alongside you this summer!
In His Service,
Sherry Crossley
Women's Ministry Coordinator, Gracespring Bible Church
Women's Ministry Coordinator, Gracespring Bible Church
Thanks for sharing! I love the idea of this blog.
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