1 Corinthians 13:2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

Have you ever tried to encourage someone who you really do not like? It is very hard to talk up the virtues, strengths or abilities of others when you do not like them!

God has told us that we need to love others because without that love that He has already given each of us, we cannot hope to achieve what He has in store for us.

We need to take His love, apply it in our hearts and share it with others so that we can then apply the gifts He has given us…

Acts 15:32 Now Judas and Silas, themselves being prophets also, exhorted and strengthened the brethren with many words.

One of the things we often forget to do is to strengthen and encourage others; we can do this just by talking to them and telling them how much you think of what they are doing.

We are surrounded by people who do a lot of talking and they demand praise from everyone before they get down and do things.

Then there are the few who simply get on and do what has to be done and do not ask for praise. Lift them up today by encouraging them with words of thanks instead of praise. Love them.

Hebrews 13:6 So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”

How many times have you lost sleep because you are worried about something that may happen or worried about what someone has said against you?

I know that I have lost many hours sleep because of what others say, do or say that they will do. But I have also always found great comfort in bringing those situations to God.

Our Lord wants us to be secure in the knowledge that He is in charge and that we can bring everything to Him and not have to fear what man can do – His power is infinite!