Most days, I am unapologetically a cheerleader for everyone and everything. Encouraging people brings me great joy. Over the years, in various leadership roles, people have laughed and mocked me as I said, “They need a cheerleader.”
Let’s face it; we all need a cheerleader! We work harder when we feel appreciated. We take bigger risks when people remind us it’s okay to fail forward. We keep loving more loudly than this deafening world when our hearts are filled with the Holy Spirit fueling and strengthening our souls.
Our old dog went to jump on the couch last night, but her legs gave way. She dropped to the ground and looked like she might cry. My husband jumped over behind her, and I slid down the cushions to be in front of her. We encouraged her to try again.
Her tail started wagging as my husband petted her and told her it was okay. She stood up on her legs and her ears perked up as I clapped my hands and called her name. She tried again and made it into my waiting arms on the couch where she had crashed a few minutes earlier.
She needed a cheerleader to encourage her to try again.
Whatever you are facing this morning, personally or within your congregation, take a minute to feel the power of the Holy Spirit with you here and now. Quiet the noise of this man-made chaos and hear the voice of your creator. You’ve got this! He has got you and I am cheering for you!
Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
Kim Rice Smith
NCCUMC Sound District
Lay Leader