From PlayGrounds to Psychwardsਨਮੂਨਾ

Day 4: You Need Encouragement

It had been a long week, and I was completely worn out. (Colby)

Amanda was still battling depression, and we had four kids under the age of four at home. My sister had come to help for a few days and could tell I needed a break. Before heading back home, she offered to take the kids to my parents’ house, about two and a half hours away.

As the kids were loading up, my daughter ran over, wrapped her arms around me, and said,

“Dad, you’re the best dad ever.”

It caught me off guard, but it was exactly what I needed to hear.

In every season of life, we need encouragement. Someone to look us in the eye and say, “You’ve got this. You’re doing better than you think.” During Amanda’s darkest days, I tried to be that voice for her. When she didn’t feel worthy or strong, I reminded her that she was loved, that she was fighting hard, and that she wasn’t alone.

I didn’t always get it right. There were moments when frustration and exhaustion got the best of me, but I learned how much those small words of affirmation mattered. We were also surrounded by incredible friends and family who stepped in when we couldn’t do it alone. They dropped off meals, watched the kids, prayed for us, and even volunteered to help feed Asher while he was in the NICU.

Looking back, I realize how vital that encouragement was. We weren’t meant to carry the weight of life alone. God uses people, our community, our family, our friends, to remind us of His faithfulness when we can’t see it ourselves.

You may not realize it, but your words could be the lifeline someone else needs today. Never underestimate the power of simple encouragement.

Reflection Questions:

Who in your life needs to hear words of encouragement from you today? What could you say that would remind them they’re not alone?