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Which are you: Complainer or Encourager?

complainerWhile we shouldn’t categorize people, sometimes I do.

Mark Batterson does too. He uses two categories in his book In a Pit with a Lion
     Complainers and Worshipers.

For horizontal relationships, I recategorize as Complainers and Encouragers.

I notice the difference most when I need encouragement myself. In those times I’m often surprised at who excels at giving encouragement.
And who doesn’t. 

When I’m in times of stress, I want to hang around those who give positive, spiritual encouragement. And avoid those who bring me down lower. Each type can make a difference.

Which category fits you: complainer or encourager?

I’m both. I don’t want to be a complainer, but I know sometimes I am. It’s ugly. A bitter edge is never attractive.

So I fight against complaining by focusing on contentment.
Christ promised to provide all I need.

And strive to be encouraging by showing grace to others.
I’ve been blessed with more than my fair share of grace already.

I want to slide more into the encouraging category and leave the complaining category behind. You, too?

* * *

revised from the archives

11 comments:

SeeingStars said...

I think this challenges many of us. I'm very thankful for Kay T's wise words and gentle spirit in challenging me to look at a situation differently. She's willing to hold up a big mirror in front of my attitude to let me see when I'm complaining to God.

Lisa notes... said...

I agree with you, Kim. Kay T is a treasure. But you also have such a gentle and wise spirit. And you are always encouraging. I'm blessed whenever I'm around you.

The Wild Optimist said...

Hi There,

What an excellent point. . . I find I've become a little better at encouraging since beginning blogging- and since benefitting from a most excellent encourager!

Have a good day!

Barbara H. said...

In my natural estate I do tend to be more of a complainer, and I need to remind myself of how others' complaining affects me. One of my friends is such an encourager -- I want to be more like her when I grow up.

You are a very encouraging commenter.

HisFireFly said...

You are an encourager indeed, dear one!

Praying that we all learn how to stop complaining - for the Lord has told us in His Word He detests grumbling and complaining.

Laura said...

Thank you for your sweet comment. Will you consider linking up for Brag on God Friday's?

Anonymous said...

I'm so thankful for the reminder. I commit to be an encourager and not a complainer! Help me Holy Spirit!

floyd said...

I have to say, I've been encouraged by you, and you don't even know me. You have a kind heart from God. I don't know what category that puts you under, but I think it's a really good one, since God made it. Thanks.

Caroline said...

I can be both sometimes too. I so appreciate how you point out the differences here. Praying to be an encourager!

Brenda said...

Complainer. Definitely.

Bonnie Gray said...

I think I mask my complaining as worry. ;) I never thought of the two categories as offsetting eachother. Interesting thought, Lisa. I'm gonna chew on this one. Thanks for sharing this one. (btw, curious. how's the wedding planning going?):) *hugs*

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