I am very thankful for all the encouragement I’ve received, both directly and indirectly, over the years. I’m thankful for those whose examples made me long to be more like them, as they lived lives that glorified Christ. It was obvious in their actions and words, in their concern for others, and in how and where they spent their time. Their efforts exemplified Christ’s life and personified selflessness.

These examples of good people made me want to examine myself, study God’s word, and deepen my understanding. These few people who affected me so much are now many in my life—many because I now choose to surround myself with them and others like them. In my opinion, their encouragement and edification have helped me become a better person.

I miss seeing many of these people weekly, as we did before Alzheimer’s affected our lives in such a way that we couldn’t. However, I still follow many of these outstanding examples on social media.

The people I speak of here are part of the Lord’s Church and helped me realize the importance of biblical study and of becoming and living as a Christian—because it doesn’t happen through osmosis! NO, these people continuously challenged me to study God’s Word together and independently, and now I strive to help others “see what they can become” in Christ, and through Christ, so we can all become better Me’s.

“Help others see what they can become” ~Philip Sanders

1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 10:24-25; Ephesians 4:29; Philippians 2:4; 2 Timothy 2:15, Proverbs 27:17; Matthew 5:16; 1 Corinthians 11:1; Philippians 3:17; Hebrews 3:13; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 4:15-16; Romans 15:14; Colossians 3:16; 1 Timothy 4:12; Titus 2:7; 1 Peter 2:12.

God First!