Making the EFFORT
Mark 2:3; And they came, bringing to Him a paralytic carried by four men.
We can be a catalyst to help our family and friends reach their greatest potential. It is good to try
new things, to take risks and to experiment with one’s abilities. David was the “sweet psalmist
of Israel” but what if he had never picked up a harp? Samson was called to be a judge of Israel
before he was even born, but what if his parents had not listened or instructed him in the ways
of a Nazarite? God told Noah that judgment was coming; what if he had never picked up his
tools?
These were radical individuals who fulfilled the call of the Lord, but surely they also had people
who stood behind them and encouraged them to soar. David was a steadfast lover of the Lord
who continually placed his hope in the Almighty during his twenty-year run from Saul. But the
accounts of Samuel tell of joyful times when mighty men pledged their allegiance to David and
banded together with him. The nameless man in this miraculous event recorded by Mark was
healed, but would never have experienced the healing had his four friends not brought him to
Jesus.
We need to inspire those around us to reach their full potential. Look for people’s strengths and
encourage them to develop those. If your child is artistic, ask her to draw your portrait; if your
friend is musical, encourage them to join a band or choir; if your spouse shows skill in a certain
area, fully support them in their attempts to further the gift. As parents, ask the Lord what your
children should be involved in and what your family should be pursuing. He has practical words
for you!
PRAYER and MEDITATION
1. Do you encourage the gifts and abilities you see in your family members and close
friends? Ask God to show you something in a friend or family member that He wants you to
encourage them towards over the next week.
2. How can you inspire the people you meet to be the best they can be today and every day?
3. The paralytic needed friends to take him to the Lord. Ask God for the name of someone
who needs to be spiritually encouraged today. How does He want to use you to do this?
