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Where do you turn for daily encouragement? If that question leaves you stumped, then keep reading. Because there’s nothing like a daily dose of encouragement to get you through your day.
This summer, some of my best blogger friends and I are sharing our very best posts – the ones readers DEVOURED and shared, so this is a real treat! It’s called, “Summer Sizzle”! Today, my SWEET friend, Marva, from the British Virgin Isles, shares her sage advice for how to sparkle when your spirit is…well, rather droopy. And if anyone has reason to complain, it’s her! She lived through three devastating hurricanes last summer. I know you’ll love what she has to say today.
Since no two days are alike, we often need to find creative ways to spark some joy in our day. Here are three not-so-conventional ways I’ve found daily encouragement lately.
Daily encouragement: 3 joy sparks to revive your spirit
1. Be real
Deep down inside, we all want to feel connected. I’ve found that when I’m real with others about how I’m really doing it gives them an opportunity to encourage me. The truth is, when we admit that we’re sad, discouraged, don’t have it all together, falling apart at the seams – you fill in the blanks – it allows others to come alongside and whisper a word of encouragement.
2. Ask for help
This past weekend, as I updated a group of friends about my latest struggles, I realized that the words I used really weren’t serving me well. It was clear that I needed to think differently. And so, I asked.
It was more like quiet desperation, but I put it out there and specifically asked my friends to suggest a way for me to think more positively about my circumstances.
Their responses were refreshing.
So now, instead of ‘overwhelmed’ and ‘frustrated’, you’ll hear me say I’m a conqueror and an overcomer! All because I asked for help.
3. Turn to the Word
One of the best ways to light a fire under your day is to jump into the Word. Recently, after applying #1 and #2 above, some of my readers shared the following verses to encourage me. It worked! And I pray these scriptures encourage you too.
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.
For I am the Lord your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
And the Lord has declared this day that you are his people, his treasured possession as he promised, and that you are to keep all his commands. He has declared that he will set you in praise, fame and honor high above all the nations he has made and that you will be a people holy to the Lord your God, as he promised.
I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
My daily doses of encouragement:
Need an extra serving of hope and inspiration? Here are a few places I’m finding daily encouragement this month.
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What I’m reading:
For all the wonder women out there, this one is for you. I think the tagline says it all: “let go of broken identities and live the life you were made for”.
Whispers of Rest by Bonnie Gray
Looking for a reset? This 40-day journey has been a welcomed rest for my soul.
What I’m listening to:
Overcomer song by Mandisa (click to watch the video)
I can’t promise that you won’t shed a tear or two after watching this one. Umm…not that I would know anything about that.
Chrystal’s Chronicles podcast by Chrystal Evans Hurst
You can always get an encouraging word from Chrystal. Plus, she’s so real and relatable, I love it!
The Power of Your Subconscious Mind audiobook by Joseph Murphy
This one’s got me thinking and rethinking the way I think. Our words and thoughts have power and we’d do well to use them wisely.
How about you?
Where are you finding daily encouragement? Leave a comment with some of your favorite ways to be encouraged. Let’s encourage one another!
Wishing you blessings!
Marva
Marva Smith | SunSparkleShine.com
About Marva:
Marva is an island-living, sun-loving Christian wife and mother. As a business owner, management consultant, trainer and coach, she’s no stranger to busy but chooses the full life Christ offers instead (John 10:10). She finds joy in encouraging women to slow down and shine in the light of God’s goodness. You can find her writing about her life and faith on her website SunSparkleShine.com as well as Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram. Get a free copy of her e-book You Were Made to Sparkle here.
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Ruthie, you make my words so pretty with these lovely graphics. 🙂
Thank you for hosting me here today, my friend. Reading this again has lifted my spirits and I pray it does likewise for your readers.
Girl if anyone’s GOOD at making words look pretty, it’s YOU!! I’m honored to have you share, friend – this was GOOD. I know you’ve been through soooo much. Love you! <3
What a blessing to find this encouragement today, Ruthie. God knew I needed to read this again. Thanks, my friend. Sending you hugs and wishing you blessings.