Encouraging Another’s Talent

Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today.”

Hebrews 3:13, NIV

My friend Jamie is a talented musician and singer. I have watched her use her talents to bless others since we first became friends in college. For Jamie, singing is more than just a hobby; it is a place where she finds purpose and renewal. But life recently has gotten a little crazy for Jamie, and some of her dreams have been put aside for the moment while she simply takes care of the day-to-day tasks that need to get done. As her friend, I hate to see this happen.

When a local talent event came up, I quickly texted Jamie with the information, encouraging her to audition. I reminded her how talented she is and how much I love to see her perform. She messaged me back saying she would try out for the event. A few days later I got another text with an attached e-mail showing that she was accepted to perform. We were both giddy with excitement. She was thankful for the opportunity to perform, but more than that, she was thankful for the reminder to keep doing something that she loves.

Calling out the talents and encouraging the dreams of others is one way we can extend kindness on a consistent basis. Everyone has something they’re passionate about, and if we take the time to listen, we’ll find out what it is. Scripture tells us to encourage one another daily, and reminding people to keep doing something they love is a great way to offer this encouragement. This is especially important when we see someone who is discouraged or has lost hope that they’ll ever see their dreams come true. We can reignite a much-needed spark of hope at just the right time, pushing that person to keep trying and to keep pursuing all that God has for them.

—Kendra

— Today’s Act of Kindness —

Be on the lookout for someone who is discouraged or has not been using their talents, and take the time to encourage and remind them of the talent God has given them.

From the book