Recently, my family went on a camping trip with my sister and her family before the kids went back to school. We went on beautiful hikes and enjoyed the quiet time of being in God's wonderful creation. One of these hikes, however, turned out to be a real challenge, especially with our small children in tow! It was about a 4-mile hike, with varying elevations, and uneven ground. It was hot and humid that day, so it made breathing a little more difficult. Although the description of this hike said it was "family friendly", the person describing it must have not been thinking about a parent carrying a 25lb toddler in a hiking backpack and the other parent carrying 25lbs worth of snacks and water! Needless to say, the hike felt a lot longer than 4 miles. At one point I leaned over to my sister and said, "Now I know why the Israelites complained so much!" 

However, there was one thing we had that perhaps the Israelites didn't. As we were walking towards our destination, there were people coming back. They had seen what lied ahead and gave us words of encouragement such as, "You're almost there!" "Just a little longer!" "It is beautiful up there!" Every time these words were spoken to us, it gave us the strength and motivation to keep going. And sure enough, it really was a beautiful place once we arrived. There were several cascades, and the view of the lake was breathtaking! The kids played in the water, we all rested, and replenished our energy supply before heading back. On the way back, we made sure to offer words of encouragement to the folks we passed along the way because we knew the difference that had made for us.

Life is very similar to a hike. There are ups and downs, and several rough patches along the way. However, the life experiences God allows us to face can be used to provide encouragement to others who encounter those same difficulties. Take full advantage of every opportunity that God gives you to be a motivation to others to keep going, especially when it comes to doing God's work here on earth. Disappointment will sneak in but let us use that to be more aware and intentional on how we can support others.

Suggested prayer: Dear Lord, use me to be an encouragement to others with my words and actions. And may I receive the same encouragement when needed as well. Thank you for the community of faith you have placed me in to work together in spreading Your Good News to others. In Jesus' name, amen.

1. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NLT).

Today's Encounter was written by: Crystal B.