I had an inspiring conversation with my financial advisor yesterday. We talked about the economy and noted how discouraging difficult times can be. We shared stories about people who had become delirious or depressed because of an arduous trial. Somehow, however, we started encouraging each other and resolved not to throw in the towel prematurely. Both of us left the conversation recharged and ready to run another leg of the race.
Our conversation reminded me of the importance of good company. Every now and then, you need someone in your corner who won’t let you quit. Maybe that’s why the author of Hebrews said, “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another …” (Hebrews 10:25, New Living Translation). Life can back you into the corner of hopelessness, but the words of a survivor, someone who made it through a similar trial, can work wonders! Truly, “The tongue can bring death or life ..” (Proverbs 18:21, New Living Translation).
In these perilous times, everyone needs some encouragement. So, find someone you can encourage. You never know: your words may be the second wind someone needs to resume their race.