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By Betsy Ore Glass

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. – I Corinthians 15:58 ESV

I love what the dictionary says about the word encourage: to inspire with courage, spirit or confidence; to stimulate by assistance or approval or to promote, advance or foster.

There are times in our life when we are self-absorbed. Meaning, thinking only of our wants and needs, oblivious to those around us. Certainly, sickness or loss can come and overwhelm all the emotions, leaving you feeling empty with nothing to give. But, that is not true. When we shift out focus off of ourselves and onto Him, He allows us the energy and the circumstances to be His Hands and His Heart.

Many years ago, recovering from grueling cancer treatments, I latched on to the victim mentality, until I realized it made me feel worse. Someone wise walked alongside me and said “Do something for someone else.” Many people in the treatment process became my new family. Some people were worse off than me and others were alone. I began a ministry of cards. It was often a homemade attempt, a scripture and a kind word of encouragement and the price of a stamp. It made a difference, mostly in me. I found a purpose besides being sick.

But you could say “I am not sick, things are okay for me. I am simply struggling to make ends meet. Gas, food, etc.” Then ask God for the attitude shift to have a heart of gratitude. Find joy again in the free things: the walk on the beach, the picnic, a sunrise. Step outside of the heaviness that can hold a person down and let His Light in. And then spread His Light to those around you, then you too will become an encourager. Blessings!

Betsy Ore Glass has long-standing ties to the Outer Banks. From Virginia Beach, her family bought a vacation cottage in the 60s and her love of the area began. Later in the 90s, Betsy and her husband bought a weekend cottage and introduced the area to their children. Then Betsy’s parents retired to KDH where the family gathered often. Reach her at betsyglass1@gmail.com. To learn more about her new book, Reflections by the Sea, visit betsyoreglass.com.

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