The Gift of Nurturing, Support, and Encouragement: A Personal Journey

In life, some individuals seem naturally inclined to be nurturers, supporters, and encouragers. They possess a unique gift of uplifting those around them. As we grow older and come to better understand ourselves, we may find that we play the role of encourager and supporter in our relationships. This realization often stems from a complex interplay of life experiences, including childhood, personal struggles, and the way we've chosen to respond to them. In this blog post, we'll explore why some people are naturally nurturing and how personal experiences can shape us into the individuals we are today.

Early Life and Its Impact

Childhood experiences can have a profound influence on our adult selves. For many, their nurturing and supportive nature can be traced back to their upbringing. As a child, you may have taken on the role of protector for a younger sibling, always making sure they were safe and cared for. Growing up in an environment marked by infidelity and mistreatment, where love and support were scarce, can leave a lasting impact. It can lead to feelings of inadequacy, worthlessness, and a tendency to put up emotional barriers.

"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." - Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)

Masking Vulnerability

Growing up in an environment where you had to be strong for yourself and your loved ones can lead to a habit of masking your own vulnerability. People might perceive those who appear unyielding and self-sufficient as individuals who don't need support. This couldn't be further from the truth. It's essential to remember that everyone, no matter how strong they seem, has moments of self-doubt and vulnerability.

"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." - 2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)

The Paradox of Needing Support

It's often puzzling that some people, while being quick to seek encouragement and support, find it challenging to reciprocate these feelings. The paradox lies in the expectation that we place on others. The more we expect from those around us, the more we risk disappointment when they can't meet our expectations. This isn't to say that we shouldn't seek support from our relationships, but it's a reminder that our ultimate source of strength and comfort should come from a higher power.

"My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth." - Psalm 121:2 (ESV)

Finding Solace in God's Love

When the support from those around us falls short, we can turn to a greater source of strength, love, and encouragement—our faith in God. He is our protector, our ever-present help in times of need. Through prayer and meditation on God's Word, we can find healing and nourishment for our souls, and in moments of loneliness, we can feel His presence like a warm, sweet hug.

"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." - Psalm 34:18 (ESV)

Conclusion

In our quest for nurturing, support, and encouragement, we must remember that humans are fallible. People may let us down, but God's love is unwavering. As you read this, may you hold onto the One who made you, who is always there to offer you the love, encouragement, and support you need. In your moments of loneliness, may you feel His Holy presence wrapped around you, providing solace and strength. In Him, you can find the ultimate source of nurturing, support, and encouragement. Pray for me, I will pray for you,

Monica