I attended nine schools before junior high school. All of those schools and the teachers are a little fuzzy in my memory, with the exception of one teacher.
In seventh grade, my English teacher asked me to stay after school. After reading essays and stories I had written, she wanted to encourage me to write more. Her name is the only teacher's name I remember from all those years of attending different schools. I have never forgotten her or her encouragement.
As an adult, I have enjoyed writing and teaching Bible studies - in churches and conference settings. Through my husband's encouragement, I have written a book, established a website and this blog and am currently working on other books and Bible studies.
I am convinced that none of this would have taken place without encouragement. I have my husband to thank as well as friends and family who have encouraged me to continue to write. Those who encourage others have a vital part in participating in their work.
I am not alone in this. Most of us wither a little when someone discourages us. All of us thrive on the encouragement of those we know and love. Recently I read an interview with a best selling author. She said the most encouraging words she had received were from her eight year old grandson who said, "Grandma, you are a good writer."
Never underestimate the value of encouragement.
God's word can encourage you each time you read it. He also wants His children to strengthen and encourage one another.
So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing (1 Thessalonians 5:11 NLT).
About Me
- Stephanie B. Blake
- As I speak internationally to English speakers as well as through an interpreter, some of my greatest joys have been speaking to groups where participation from the audience is possible. Not only do I value the input of those in my conferences, but if they are actively involved (share testimonies, participate in prayer, read Scripture aloud), it is obvious that everyone is with me. I am interested in theological study, Christian writing, historical application of Biblical principles as well as writing as a craft and the current status of the publishing industry as a whole. As a result, I find myself following blogs of those whom I have learned to trust who contribute information in those fields. It occurred to me that blogs are the internet equivalent of audience participation in a conference setting. So, this blog is a result of that discovery. As much as possible (sometimes when I travel I do not have internet access), I will be making weekly posts of how everyday life is related to what God has revealed about Himself in His Word - maintaining one focus on that most important relationship. I would welcome your participation.
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