Fact....since I was very young I have been one of the least mechanically inclined human beings on the face of this earth. God has given me many gifts. However, artistic and "building" talent is not one of them.

Story...I realized the above information by around 3rd grade. A big Cub Scout project was building a rocket ship with wood and supplies given to me. We would later race the rockets for prizes. I looked at the wood and supplies, not having a single clue about what to do with it. However, I was determined to do this on my own. After all I was 9 and a Cub Scout. I'm a big guy now.

Ok, an hour later. Nothing. That big guy feeling has given way to feeling like a helpless little boy who was never going to accomplsh the task. Somehow Dad found out where I was. I hadn't planned to tell him what I was doing because it was "my" task. However, at this point I very readily accepted his offer of assistance.

Long story short...he did not do the project for me. He provided plenty of instruction and guidance, and even helped me with some of the handy work. In the end though, it was my completed project.

The theme of this story is that, even though I completed my project, I never would have come close to completing it had it not been for the guidance and encouragement of my father. Over 30 years later, this event is still fresh on my mind.

God has recently brought this to my mind, and I believe he is telling me something. He is telling me two things I believe. One is that, even though the goals and hurdles are our own, He is constantly there to provide guidance, advice, power, and whatever we need to accomplish the task. Second, I believe it is our responsibilty to do the same for those around us.   And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.....let us encourage one another..... (Hebrews 10:24-25).

I will take that as my challenge this week. I believe this is an excellent challenge for all, and if everyone encouraged just one person this week, think of how much better they (and we) will be.

By the way...out of approximately a hundred rockets, I won second place     Thanks Dad!!