One of the birthday traditions we have in our family is sharing what we love about the celebrant. It’s truly a special time for the birthday boy/girl who feels encouraged as they realize the impact that their life has on each of us.
In his book Raising Giant-Killers, Bill Johnson refers to this as a culture of honor in calling “out the gold in people.” He said, “most people live aware of the things they wish were different in their lives, with a heightened awareness of their own weaknesses and idiosyncrasies. What many usually don’t know is their significance, gifting or value to others.”
So between the month of May commemorating Mother’s Day and when I attend an annual women’s conference, I realize the tremendous value many women have in my life, particularly the ladies of Whispers and Fringes (who did not know I would this; don’t be mad at me ladies!) The amount of encouragement, support, and prayers that pour forth so generously from this group has literally blessed my socks off and I am incredibly grateful.
Each one is so unique and special as you may have noticed by now. But I wanted to share with you my reasons why:
Anu- our visionary, she is not afraid to dream big and bring others along for the ride. When we first began to post daily on Facebook, she noticed that we were sharing a quote or a picture. She encouraged us to write something that the readers could relate to. It just felt frightening to be so vulnerable, but she put her money where her mouth is by sharing a beautiful, transparent post. Her heart truly is to empower women, including her leaders, and saying I am thankful doesn’t seem like enough. We are simply not the same because of her faithful leadership.
Vijoy- if I could describe her in two words, it would be prayer warrior. She exemplifies faith and strength as she approaches the Father with any one of our needs. And what she shares is heartfelt because she has the beautiful gift of empathy. A beautiful friend indeed!
Binu- incredibly gifted with her words, weaving her experiences so beautifully with the truths from God’s Word. And some of the best ideas that we have had were birthed in her mind! So much wisdom and thoughtfulness in one person!
Betsy- one of the most tender hearts, she has a vast knowledge of God’s Word and a heightened sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Not to mention, she encourages us to be impactful. I love how iron truly sharpens iron!
Shiney- A great sense of humor and being genuine are among the traits that just make you want to pull up a chair and have coffee with her. What she shares is insightful and thought-provoking. She is quick to volunteer to lead us in prayer … and we need that to avoid an awkward silence during a conference call :)
These ladies are amazing women of God and I am thankful for the privilege to call them my sisters, my friends.
I want to encourage you today to cultivate this culture of honor and call out the gold in the people around you. As Bill Johnson stated, “Whenever we bring encouragement to people, we are simply reading the poetry of God that He is writing on the pages of their lives.”
~Joyce
