Be a Positive Influence in a Hurting World

Recently I read an article while waiting to go into the doctor’s office. The article said that some of the most depressing times are right after the holidays, or on “blue Mondays,” rainy days, and during the months of January and February because of the lack of sunshine. The article said that 10 million people’s lives are affected. I thought about it, and understood a little bit of that information. This past Christmas not all of our children could come because of COVID. Families have lost loved ones recently, which makes the heart sad. Nurses, doctors, pharmacy workers, grocery store workers, teachers, and others are feeling the pressures of being overworked. Jim and I went into a restaurant, and there was a sign on a whiteboard that said, “Please be patient with our staff. They are doing their best. Some are out sick, and some are afraid to come to work. Thank you for your patience.”

At the beginning of this new year, we need to make a difference for Christ. A preacher challenged me to daily read my Bible and then share what I had read with others. That convicted my heart. I do read my Bible, but I don’t always share it with others. Sometimes I find myself reading just to check off a box saying I have read. That does not please me. My goal for 2022 is to text our daughters (in-law), and our granddaughters what God has touched my heart with while reading. What a difference it has made in the way I read my Bible. I don’t know what our girls are going through, or what they may need for that day, but my Heavenly Father does. “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth; it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it” (Isaiah 55:11). As a mom and grandmom, I desire to see our children and grandchildren grow in their walk with the Lord. I know that life can be busy, and sometimes it is a while before we talk, so I am glad for this way to be a daily encouragement to them. God’s Word can help anyone with anything they are facing.

This year, decide to be a positive influence and encouragement to someone. You never know how God’s Word can heal a soul.