Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Yeshua the Messiah, the Father of compassion and God of all encouragement. He encourages us in every trouble, so that we may be able to encourage those who are in any trouble, through the very encouragement with which we ourselves are encouraged by God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, TLV

Spiritual Constipation? Yuck!   Sorry for the graphic phrasing, but always taking the blessings from GOD and not channeling His encouragement to others just binds us in selfishness.

We’ve probably seen the haughty looks from others when we’re going through a difficult time. The platitudes they express feel more like stones lobbed at our hearts. Doesn’t feel encouraging, does it?

There are problems with not sharing the encouragement, wisdom, prayers — real prayers — or time with others going through difficult times. Because if we hoard our blessings and insights and inspirations, we leave no room for more blessings from our Father. Spiritual constipation.

For just as the sufferings of Messiah overflow into us, so also through Messiah our encouragement overflows.  (vs. 5, TLV)

It’s simple spiritual physics. When Messiah overflows, our encouragement can overflow to others.

I get excited when the Holy Spirit reveals wisdom, discernment, knowledge, understanding, blessings, encouragement, comfort. Not just because I feel my Father’s love, but I get to share it. It’s why I get up before the sun and see what He has for me, then share with you.

Not everyone is called in this particular way of sharing encouragement, nevertheless we’re all called to encourage as our Messiah has encouraged us. And I have a feeling that He’s given each of ways to express that encouragement.

Today, let’s be observant of opportunities to encourage as we have been encouraged. To share insights that might be helpful to others in love and humility. Let’s be our Father’s hands and feet, however He has shown us.