I believe in you.

Those were not the words I expected.

Moments earlier, I poured out my complaint to a friend via text. Fingers tapped an unrestrained confession of feeling helpless, overwhelmed, and ill-equipped. I questioned my ability to accomplish all I had dreamed and earnestly worked for. It was a fleeting, but honest moment of self-doubt and I called on a friend to help me sort it out.

I held the phone and gazed at her reply in silent disbelief.

I believe in you.

She didn’t offer pity. She didn't encourage me to slow down or ask if I had taken on too much. She didn't tell me to make a list and prioritize tasks. She didn't offer words which mirrored my dark, internal thoughts... "Perhaps you should give up."

I believe in  you.

Those are wrestling words, I thought.
Then came the second blow. Three additional words and I was on the mat.

You inspire me.

That was it. The conversation was over. We shifted to ballet recitals and weekend plans, but the seven words and the wrestling mat remained.

I knew exactly what she was doing. I pulled this "Love and Logic" parenting trick many times and watched my children cringe at the words, "I know you will make the right choice." My daughters typically responded with frustration, "Mom, I hate it when you do that!" and stomped off to make the right choice.

My friend believed in me. As I wrestled with her seven words of encouragement, I remembered that I believed in myself and didn't want to give up. I just needed reminding that I could do this.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. -Philippians 4:13

And now, I offer the same seven words and a wrestling mat to you.

For my husband, Jeff, who continually seeks God’s will...
     Keep your eyes on Him. I believe in you. You inspire me.

For my daughters as they navigate their adult lives...
     You are more than able. I believe in you. You inspire me.

For my family and friends whose stories, victories, and struggles I hold dear...
     I know you. I believe in you. You inspire me.

For ministry leaders who struggle with “being enough”…
     You have a calling. I believe in you. You inspire me.

For single mothers who feel overwhelmed and ill-equipped…
     Don’t give up. I believe in you. You inspire me.

For writers who wrestle with self-doubt and fear…
     You have something important to say. I believe in you. You inspire me. 

For my art students who question their ability…
     Take risks. I believe in you. You inspire me.

For those who dream big dreams…
     Take the next step. I believe in you. You inspire me.

For my readers who need encouragement…
     Your longings are not hidden from God. I believe in you. You inspire me.

And finally, for my dear friend who gave me seven words and a wrestling mat...
     You are loved. I believe in you. You inspire me, too.

l

Your Story:

What loving, kind, encouraging, and empowering words have you received from a friend? Reach out to a friend who needs to hear, “I believe in you. You inspire me.”
Use this question for personal reflection or comment publicly below. To send a private message, click HERE.