When Blessing Others Becomes Second Nature
Last week I shared about the importance of blessing others with our spoken words. God continues to show me its significance, especially when blessing others becomes second nature.
Once again, a story about my dear mother-in-law. Although dementia consumes her mind, she does have moments of clarity. Even in those moments, she has difficulty communicating. If you pay attention, though, you can understand what she wants you to know.
A little over a week ago she fell and fractured her arm. A few days later she visited her orthopedist. And the conversation she had with her intake nurse is one I’ll not soon forget. As “J” asked questions about her arm and other related issues, Gerry began to ask her own questions. She had a sense about what J needed, and encouraged her in her walk of faith. J was deeply touched, as she was, indeed, going through some difficult days. Later, Gerry encouraged her again. We learned that a few days prior she purchased her first Bible.
Encouraging others in their walk of faith is how she is wired. Even though dementia is taking its toll on her mind, it has no hold on her heart. Who she is in Christ remains (Romans 8:38-39)! And occasionally we get to see that.
Even more amazing–at almost 95 years old, God is not finished with her! He is still using her to encourage those who cross her path.
But the godly will flourish like palm trees … Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. (Psalm 92:12-14)
You see, in all the years I’ve known her, anytime I walked in the doors of her home, Gerry spoke words of blessing over me. At some point during each visit, she let me know she loved me, she saw God working in my life, and encouraged me in my ministry. (I am doubly blessed, because my own mother does the same!)
The lesson for us? God wants us to bless and encourage people all around us. Not only our family and friends. Like Gerry, blessing others becomes second nature when we make this our way of life and heart.
Blessing others becomes second nature when we make this our way of life and heart. Share on XMy personal schedule is ramping up once again as we approach Winter Guard championships. I want to stay in touch with y’all, so I will have weekly posts, but for the next few weeks they will likely be short–as this one is.
Image: Pixabay (David Watts)
This is beautiful Dianne. I remember the first time someone told me they were proud of me… I was in my 40’s and it was someone who barely knew me. It nourished my heart in ways I’d never experienced! Oh, to give that gift to others…
Beautiful affirmations here, Dianne. I will share them with my Facebook readers. Blessings to you!
This was a blessing to read! Thanks for sharing such a beautiful story of God’s grace. No matter what we are going through, who we are in Christ remains. Amen! : )
Wow, so encouraged to hear someone being used for God at 95!
What a great and sweet story! I needed this today : )
That is so wonderful that she can still share her faith even though she has troubles communicating. And what a great example to us to be an encourager to those around us!
Thanks for sharing this!
And thanks for commenting on my post today. https://plantedbylivingwater.wordpress.com/2017/03/08/a-different-miracle/
Wow! What a beautiful testimony! This touched my heart so much… “Even though dementia is taking its toll on her mind, it has no hold on her heart. Who she is in Christ remains.” Who she is in Christ remains… halleluja!
Yes, Tammy. Our world, our families, are desperate for it! Love you!!
Thanks, Sarah.
My MIL has always been a beautiful example of God’s love and grace.i am blessed to have her in my life!
I pray in my old-age, that I honor God in the same way she does!
I love how God’s timing is just right … glad you were encouraged. Blessings on you this day!!
Gerry is amazing … and so is her God!!
I know, Ruth. An encouragement to my heart and a challenge as well … God wants to use us not matter what. Praying blessings on you this day!
What a sweet, encouraging story, Dianne. I love it! What a blessing to not only see how God continues to use your mother-in-law but how her spirit remains strong in the Lord. Thanks for sharing and writing – keep it up!
How amazing at 95 to be speaking truth and encouragement into peoples’ lives. What an inspiration.
Thank you greatly for this very fine article, I have been blessed reading your emails.
One of my gifts from God is being a writer. I too am an encourager, and it is also my belief that my words must be life giving.
Your message made me think that I must consider every word I write and speak. I am asking God to help me with this because it is difficult sometimes.
What I am most grateful for is that you have brought it to my attention. Now I will intentionally write and speak life to all I come in contact with. Thanks again, Faye Healey Goggins
Faye, so nice to hear from you! Praying God continues to bless those who hear and read your life-giving words!
Thanks, Christine. I love that God uses her like this, even in her compromised state. Even we we are compromised–no matter what that looks like–He still uses us!
Thanks, Rachel. She is an inspiration, indeed.