Edward Steichen, who eventually became one of the world's most renowned photographers, almost gave up on the day he shot his first pictures. At 16, young Steichen bought a camera and took 50 photos. Only one turned out -- a portrait of his sister at the piano. Edward's father thought that was a poor showing. But his mother insisted that the photograph of his sister was so beautiful that it more than compensated for 49 failures. Her encouragement convinced the youngster to stick with his new hobby. He stayed with it for the rest of his life, but it had been a close call. What tipped the scales? The vision to spot excellence in the midst of a lot of failures.
Acts 15: 31 The people read it and were glad for its encouraging message.
The Non - Jewish Church in Antioch was looking up to the Jerusalem council for their ministry ahead. They were somehow dependent on the message they would receive from the apostles in Jerusalem. Lo Behold, when it came, it came big and changed the course of the history. The message was of hope and encouragement. The council accepted the non-Jewish approach of Church at large and encouraged them to grow in the Lord.
You and I need to understand that a word of encouragement goes a long way. It might be a few simple words for us, but the impact it makes on an individual and other spheres is just awesome. There are so many people out there who are discouraged. We are called to bring the hope of Jesus in this dying world. Let us continue to encourage people with our words and all that we can. Let's encourage.
Stanley Thomas Isac
Stanley is serving as the Pastor of Crossway Church in New Delhi, he can be reached at Pastorstanleytisac@gmail.com
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