Hebrews 10:24-25 [NIV] ‘And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching’
DAILY READING; • Luke 24:13-53; Genesis 44; Psalm 35
One of the most touching moments in the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, was when Eric Moussambani of Equatorial Guinea swam in the 100-meter free style. He had participated under a special program that permitted poorer countries into the Olympics even though their athletes may not meet required standards. The 22-year-old Eric, had only learned to swim 3 months earlier, and had never swam in an Olympic-size pool. And arriving in Australia for the competition was his first time of ever travelling outside of Equatorial Guinea.
After his fellow competitors were disqualified because of false starts, Eric was forced to swim alone. As he jumped into the pool, he seemed terrified swimming alone, in front of thousands of people at the Sydney Aquatic Centre. He was so distressed that at a point he almost seemed to be drowning. But as the capacity crowd noticed his struggle, they stood to their feet and began cheering him on. After what seemed like an eternity, Eric finally reached the wall at a time of 1:52:72. It was the slowest time anyone had ever swum the 100 meter men freestyle in Olympic history.
When he had finally caught his breath and regained his composure, the French-speaking Eric Moussambani said through an interpreter, “I want to send hugs and kisses to the crowd. It was their cheering that kept me going.”
Eric became a media sensation and gained overnight fame for his perseverance, despite the many obstacles lined up against him. After the Olympics he continued to improve his swimming, set new records for his country and later became the coach of their national swimming squad. However, his road to success began because of the Olympic crowd that cheered him on and encouraged him to reach the finish line, at a time when he could have given up because of his fear and inadequacies.
Hebrews 10:24-25 [NIV] ‘And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching’
Indeed as we go through the peculiar challenges of the last days, one way we can spur others on and help them go forward is by showing unconditional love despite their weaknesses. Sowing seeds of love and encouragement into the lives of others can go a long way in helping them finish their race well. One of the deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated. And our love, our friendship and encouragement, is a part of the plan God has designed to help others along the way. As believers our show of love to each other is the hallmark of our faith.
Jesus said in John 13:35, “By this will all men know that you’re my disciples, if you have love one for another”.
God’s love is not exclusive; it’s inclusive. It doesn’t exclude people or write them off despite their weakness or faults. The truth is that none of us is yet a finished product, we are all works in progress and still on the potter’s wheel. This is why we must be patient with others in their weakness and instead of being critical or judgmental, let us constantly show them love and encouragement.
Hebrews 3:13 [AMP] says ‘But continually encourage one another every day, as long as it is called “Today” [and there is an opportunity], so that none of you will be hardened [into settled rebellion] by the deceitfulness of sin [its cleverness, delusive glamour, and sophistication].’
The truth is that everyone at some point feels like no one believes in them, like they can’t seem to get a break or do anything right. At such times cheering them on will enable them make greater progress than if they are being criticized. We must understand that each person is on a journey. Where they are now is not where they’re going to end up. And we can make a difference and help them go further, when we show love, understanding and encouragement.
Discouragement can make even the greatest person ineffective. It can choke all growth and bring progress to a standstill. But when we chose rather to show love and encourage others with God’s Word, it can persuade them to persevere and give them the motivation to keep pressing forward until they finish well in life.
PRAYER: Lord, please help me to trust you with the journey of my life, no matter the obstacles I may sometimes face. Truly, I know that by Your grace I shall surely finish well this year and always in Jesus Name.
QUOTE When God places His hand upon a man in life nothing can come against him, this is because the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. – WORDBITE 222.