Jamie Scott was trying out for a part in his elementary school play. His mother said that his heart was set on it, though she feared he might not be chosen. On the day the parts were awarded, Jamie rushed up to her, eyes shining with pride and excitement. “Guess what, mom,” he shouted, “I’ve been chosen to clap and cheer!”
Needless to say, Jamie was not awarded the lead part in the play. Instead, he would stay on the outside... cheering on those that had all of the lines. The world would say this was a miss in life.. but scripture says differently. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11, we read, “Therefore encourage one another and build another up, just as you are doing.” Playing the role of encourager is huge in the Kingdom of God. The world is full of those trying to drag people down. Choose to be different. Offer a smile rather than criticism. Be a listening ear and empathize rather than ignore and judge. I can promise you this, the role of encourager may never put you in a spotlight...but you won’t need it. Instead, when you choose to become one, you’ll brighten every room you enter with the light of Christ.