October 01, 2017

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: ENCOURAGE

It is amazing how much encouragement can change your perspective.  Artists often become self-critical, and because many work in isolation can begin to believe that inner dialog of negativity.   We are so often our worst enemies.  Though the artist must have an honest & critical eye, be able to self reflect, and edit their work....negativity rarely yields the positive results needed for an artist to build momentum in their creative pursuits. Internalized negativity stunts one's ability to progress fluidly. Self doubt, frustration, and dissatisfaction are stumbling blocks.  The stereotypical self deprecating, angsty artist is not the picture of health & productivity.  As with all things, the artist needs to have individuals in their life that are honest, yet positive voices of reason. No one needs people blowing smoke or giving platitudes, but a person who can give honest feedback & encourages the positive in our work is a treasure.  They help us to see the good, and prevent us from going down destructive paths.  We all need encouragement as we step out, try new things, and desire to better ourselves.  

Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing.
1 Thessalonians 5:11

Our world has become obsessed with negativity. Spewing hate, hurling insults, and devisiveness   create a toxic environment where no one wins. People feel more disconnected, dissatisfied, and disenchanted. Growth & progress are hard to come by in such a place.  Love, kindness, connection, and encouragement are needed so desperately.  As believers, we must live differently. We have been called to be & do not as the "world".  We need to look at situations & individuals through the eyes of Christ. Our response should be one of love & compassion. How would things change around you if you made the choice to encourage someone, make mention of the good you see them doing, take a moment to listen to them(without offering your opinion), or ask if they need help with anything(All the while refusing to participate in fruitless negative talk!).  Could your encouragement show others the love of Christ during these dark times? Could your attitudes and actions help to turn someone's day around?  Could your refusal to participate in the negative help someone else get out of that vicious & distructive cycle? What has God called you to do? How is He going to use you to encourage others? 

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