friend, give away your love!

What could be better than picking up your favorite to-go meal after a long day and then spending a cozy evening on the couch? That's what I was hoping for, but instead, a bad-tempered waitress told me to sit down and wait. It took forever until I finally got my food! I definitely didn't feel like leaving a tip.

But then I heard this quiet voice in my heart: "Déborah, encouragement is needed now more than ever! This woman probably had a bad day, so she's super grouchy. Encourage her with your generosity." I was obedient and gave her a good tip. As I left the restaurant, I realized that my obedience had sparked something in me: joy!

"From His abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another." (John 1:16, NLT) 

I was reminded of how many times I've been impatient, in a bad mood, or responded irritably yet still hoped I'd be treated well, understood, and most of all, shown love because I so needed it at that particular moment.

friend, we all have bad days, and on those days, we need an extra helping of love! I encourage you to be that person today who gives more to others than you receive from them.

"Let all that you do be done with love." (1 Corinthians 16:14, NKJV) 

I could've let the waitress' bad temper sour my day, but when I was led to respond in love instead, she and I both gained joy!

friend, nothing is lost when you give love away! I've experienced this truth over and over. Yes, God always gives us more out of His abundance than we could ever give away! :-)

You are a miracle!