Writing a word of encouragement By Claire Musters

I know that I have already written in the past about how supportive, encouraging and life-giving it is to be a part of ACW. The interaction we have, often online, really keeps me going and spurs me on during days when I am finding writing a bit of a slog.

But I was challenged by a Bible reflection I was recently writing (isn’t that often the way? Your writing ends up challenging you!). I was looking at the passage in Ephesians 5 about being careful how we live – and the phrase ‘speaking to one another with psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit’ jumped out at me. In my reflection I shared a couple of practical instances of when this has happened to me, and when I have stepped out and done this myself. 

We have just had Valentine's Day – I know it is an over-commercialised, money-grabbing moment on our calendars these days, but my husband and I have started a new tradition of creating cards and buying little gifts for our kids. We do this periodically anyway, but we wanted to take the time on this particular day, when they are seeing all around them the ‘romantic’ notion of receiving something from an admirer, to affirm our love and affection for them. We also remind them to look out for those moments that reveal God’s love to them throughout the day.

As I thought about both these things, I began to consider some of the other reasons that we might write to one another: a card on a birthday, a get well message or note of support when someone is having a difficult time. But do we make space regularly to write notes of friendship, love and encouragement to those around us, regardless of what is going on in their lives? An unexpected note is such a beautiful gesture that is always appreciated by the one on the receiving end. 

So, what about taking some time in the coming week to offer up your writing gift for the encouragement of a fellow ACW member? There are many poets amongst us: have you ever written a poem for a friend? What about praying and asking God for a fresh word of either thanks, encouragement or inspiration for another, which you could email, message or even write out the old-fashioned way and send via post…

Claire is a freelance writer, speaker and editor, mum to two gorgeous children, pastor’s wife, worship leader and school governor. Her books include Taking off the mask: daring to be the person God created you to be, Cover to Cover: Ezekiel A prophet for all times, Cover to Cover: 1–3 John Walking in the truth, Cover to Cover: David: A man after God's own heart, Insight Into Managing Conflict, Insight Into Self-acceptance and Insight Into Burnout. She also writes Bible study notes and magazine articles. To find out more about her, please visit www.clairemusters.com  and @CMusters on Twitter.