There is life in your voice, friend!

"Déborah, could you please come outside for a moment?" My teacher looked at me lovingly but firmly, and I shivered. Had I done something wrong? My classmates' gazes all rested on me.

Outside the room, my English teacher's voice became much softer. "I just want you to know that I see that you're struggling, and I know what is going on with you. As soon as you want me to, I will be there for you. Anytime."

THAT was not what I was expecting, friend, and I was incredibly touched by her words and the wisdom of how she handled my situation. At the time, I was an emaciated mess, on my way to life-threatening anorexia.

In fact, I later accepted her offer and met with her again and again. Each time, she encouraged me, saying, "Déborah, you're going to be a great singer one day." At the time, the most I sang was in church services. I had no conception of becoming a singer at that point. She spoke not only life but future into my brokenness!

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." (1 Thessalonians 5:11, NIV) 

friend, you don't have to stand on a stage in order to change lives with your words! There are people everywhere who need your encouragement, and they'll only experience it if, right where you are today, you open your mouth, use your voice, and speak encouragement—perhaps even life-saving encouragement—to others. That's what my teacher did, and I'll certainly never forget it.

Can you think of someone today who needs a word of hope and future spoken in the midst of a difficult situation? Even though it may take all your courage to speak out and do so, YOU can give life! Please don't let this opportunity pass by today!

You are a miracle!