I was reminded this week of the power we have inside us. Each one of us. I think we hide it sometimes. Or it gets buried by to-do’s and deadlines and stress. It may be tarnished from disuse even, but it is still there. It is the power to kindle light and hope in others.

In a recent BYU-Idaho Devotional, Bishop Gérald Caussé shared his experience of ministering to a gentleman for 7 years. When he and his companion began, the man had numerous challenges due to poor choices. They focused on trying to help him remember his worth and potential. Years later, Bishop Caussé was touched to see the man at the recommend desk of the Paris, France Temple, and was happy to hear of the good things going on in his life.

Bishop Caussé said, “When we envision the divine potential of those we encounter, it transforms the way we see them and minister to them.  Imagine what would happen if every man and woman could see others as God sees them.  If we could see others with the same kindness, the same love, the same trust that God has for them.  What would happen if everyone was recognized by their peers for what they truly are as well as what they could become.” Isn’t that a cool thought? Do you know someone who has done that for you?

It reminded me of a scripture in 1 John 3:2.

“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.”

I love that God sees our potential. He knows how far we might be from it, but He continually offers encouragement to keep trying and working. He knows we can reach our eternal goals through our efforts and with the help of His Son, Jesus Christ. He also knows how those efforts can be strengthened by helping one another.

The miracle is that as we encourage each other, we get farther as well. It reminds me of this proverb.

“Thee lift me, and I’ll lift thee, and we will ascend together.”

Quaker Proverb

I want to be a lifter, an encourager. I want to see others better. The way God sees us. Will you join me?