culinary, order and encouragementality

I can't frost a cake until the batter is baked. Premature action could result in a big mess, so I've waited all this time to preheat the oven. It might seem like an avoidance maneuver, but I can assure you that it's strictly precautionary and the voice of wisdom to keep a bold face.

This week has also been odd, as far as being encouraged by others, too. That is to say, there is a certain degree of normalcy associated with working and living amongst other believers and sharing that encouragement. However, there's been quite a jump for me this week. I spoke with a dear brother on Monday, and he was very encouraging to me and responded to me with some choice, high praise - which is always due to God and his Glory - but it meant a lot, considering I know he isn't one to speak those things often, nor lightly. He said I was doing everything right, essentially. Other brothers throughout the week have said some pretty uplifting things to me, which took me by surprise, as I wonder if God is giving a "pick-me-up" to my heart to steer me into his will even more. Then my boss had some really encouraging things to say to Mike and I this morning, which was great to hear. It's not often you hear, "You're doing great..." or "I'm super proud of what you're doing...", but I'm really glad to know that things are turning up in ways I never expected.

My mind has been lingering on this idea of being more outwardly encouraging. I typically believe the best about everyone, until given a reason not to, which results in me forgiving them...and I'm sure that works the other way around too, but I wanted to see what outward affection I can start showing to others. Sort of taking on that "pay it forward" mentality. I do want to continually be refined, reformed and sanctified, and I equally want to see that for others; since I'm to "love my neighbor as myself". I feel like that really honors the Lord.

All of these other things are going on in this kitchen, while I'm still waiting for that cake to bake. But I've really taken this encouragement with a perceptive consideration, and I'm going to make it a mentality to carry on and outward.

I really love this verse too, and often it loses its potency because of the frequency of its use, but it's:
John 13:34 Jesus said, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

"Teach me love, love, love, love, love...." - Steele's newest song.