This morning, I reflect on the years and am forever grateful for God’s mercy and grace. There were so many moments when I could have been taken from this earth but for God’s grace and mercy. He had more purpose for me, even in all I endured. I look at what I’ve gone through and see that I can encourage and help others through because God is faithful. The Scripture that comes to mind says that we can encourage others because of the comfort we have received ourselves.

2 Corinthians 1:4 – “who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”

Why is this Scripture important to me? Because I know what God has done for me. In this vein, I have compassion for others because of what God did for me during trying times. Encouragement is important to me because God is faithful. Smooth sailing is not a promise, but God never leaves you nor forsakes you. He promised to be with us during all that we go through. Mistakes, heartache, grief, pain, betrayal, and loss are just a few of the hard things that life gives us. Jesus did experience these things as well. This is why He speaks directly to our hearts.

Allow me to encourage you this morning. Life can be enjoyed, whether it is a joyful moment or a trying one. We don’t live just for ourselves. We are here for the others in our circle: family, friends, co-workers, and sometimes even strangers. When we help someone else, we make life easier for us all. So encourage someone today. Be blessed.