Encouraging Words

As I mentioned last weekend, I have recently been going through letters that people have sent me and have been reading, again, the ones that really spoke to me and encouraged me.  In most of the letters, people talk about Michael, a memory they had of him, or what an awesome Christian example he was to the world, while others chose, or were led by God, to encourage me in the person that I am.  I needed to hear both.  At times, all I want to do is think about Michael, and at other times, I can feel discouraged about me and not feel the strength of what attracted Michael to me.  When I read this note, I did not remember reading it a first time.  I know I did, but maybe I was just not ready to hear it.  I now have read it numerous times and it boosts my spirit every time I read it.

She said that she read this verse and thought of Michael saying this to me. "Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.  She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life."  (Proverbs 31:11-12)  She went on to say, "He left you so early and too soon, but as this verse states, he knows you can do it.  As hard as the days may seem and the little things that go by that no one seems to notice or remember except you, he has full confidence in you. You were the love of his life and always will be.  Just wanted to let you know you have so many here on earth that love you and are praying for you. Many in heaven, one in particular, that love you and are watching over you."(Thank you Amy T.... God put you in my life for such a time as this.)

I cry every time I read it.   One of my best friends,Nanette, reminded me, also, in a letter that Michael chose me because I was his champion.  When I read that for the first time, it made me catch my breath.  I think that often times I felt like I am the one that found the champion, not ever realizing that maybe we were equally matched.  He needed my strength like I needed his.  I did not know how badly I needed to hear these comments until I read them. Sometimes, I do not feel so strong. God has showered me with grace to live like a champion when I need to do so, and then allows me to crumble and fall into His arms at other times.  Reading these notes remind me that I have always been strong and that I fought for Michael, as he fought for me. I know that I brought him good, and not harm all the days of his life, and I am and will continue to do so for the rest of my life.  I am thankful and amazed at how God uses all different people to speak into my life at different times to meet my specific needs.  My God shall supply all of my needs.