Go ahead.....encourage.

So, last night's home group was one of my favorites thus far. We began the last chapter in John Ortberg's book on groups, and it started off with an interactive activity. We all wrote out on slips of paper what all we appreciate about each individual in the group. We took turns sitting in the "hot seat," so to speak, in our den. Each person was able to hear from everybody else what is admirable about them. It was basically an encouragement session on steroids....I say this because just the word "encouragement" doesn't accurately describe what went on here.

I have a feeling all of us were somehow at a point this week where we desperately needed to hear those positive words about ourselves. Either we have been too busy to stop and breathe, or we're listening to Satan's lies about who we are inside.....but whatever might have been keeping us from inner security was shattered last night (at least in my own case).

To know you are admired, respected, trusted, appreciated, and valuable in others' eyes sends your heart soaring....I can testify to that. Sweet words were spoken, soft tears were falling. We all left walking on clouds. That's what home group is all about.

Go ahead. Tell someone today how much you really love and appreciate them. Don't just stop at your spouse....go beyond to someone you might have never verbalized your appreciation for. The results are priceless.....for both of you.