As I rounded the corner to the drive thru window last week I felt the Lord say “Give her a tip”…. If you have read any of my posts on social media you know that I’m always “going after the one”.  That’s what Jesus did.  He left the 99 and went after the one that’s lost, broken, hurting and needs hope.  In our minds we think we know what broken, lost and hurting looks like.   However, we often forget a few things… we forget that a man in a suit and tie can be as lost as a man who is tattooed and pierced.   That a housewife living the American dream with 3.5 kids, dog and white picket fence can be as broken as the prostitute on the street corner.  The devil is an equal opportunity destroyer.

As I rolled up to the drive-thru window I told the sweet young girl with the big smile – “This is for you…I’ve been talking with Jesus and he said to give you this.” She said “Well Amen! Isn’t our God good?!?!”  to which I replied, “You’re a believer?” She said “Indeed I am! And God is good!”  I smiled as I responded…”All the time!”

As I drove away He spoke to my heart…. “Yes, I want you to go after the one. To find the lost and remind them there’s hope and healing at the foot of the cross.  But this little “God moment” you just had?  This to remind you of a couple things…. Daughter, when you’re struggling? I got you!  I’ll send someone to you.  And lastly, don’t get so focused on the lost that you forget to love and encourage your fellow believers.”  We are often guilty of thinking “They go to church – they hear the same messages I do – they know God – they’re fine!”  Or we think they should pick themselves up  out of their hurt much easier because they know the Word.  That mentality, if not kept in check, can lend itself to us leaving our wounded on the battlefield.

Let us never forget that we ALL struggle at times. We ALL need encouragement.  It’s often those that appear the strongest that are crying behind closed doors. Being the hands and feet isn’t just for the lost – it’s for everyone! Reach out and encourage someone today – even someone who seems to have it all together.

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:23-25