Each Sunday, the children’s offering brings smiles and laughter throughout the congregation. We’ve seen kids drop their money and dive headfirst into the bowl, trip on the altar steps, or skip their way back with pride. It’s one of those simple moments that remind us of the beauty of innocence and community.
Normally, Emma walks up slowly and timidly, drops her dollar in the bowl, then turns around with a big smile and skips back to the pew. But this Sunday, she wasn’t moving. She was hanging back—clearly weighing whether this was a good idea at all. The courage she’d shown in weeks past had given way to hesitation.
I leaned over and whispered, “Do you want Pops to walk with you?”
She gave the slightest nod, and in that moment, her little hand wrapped tightly around my fingers. We started our walk together.
About halfway there, she let go.
Without looking back, Emma ran the rest of the way on her own. She dropped the dollar in the bowl, turned around beaming, and sprinted back to the pew—beating me there. High fives all around.
She didn’t need me the whole way. She just needed to know she wasn’t alone at the start.
So what can we learn from Emma’s journey?
I believe it’s the quiet power of encouragement.
Encouragement doesn’t remove fear—it reduces isolation. It doesn’t mean carrying someone forever; it often means walking with them just long enough for confidence to take hold. Each of us needs advocates and sponsors in our lives—people willing to say, I believe in you, especially when doubt creeps in.
Encouragement demonstrates care. It signals investment. And over time, it builds trust and creates a deeper sense of belonging. In strong cultures—families, teams, organizations—encouragement isn’t reserved for moments of crisis. It’s woven into daily interactions.
So who needs encouragement today? On your team? In your family? In your circle of friends?
Our words and small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference—not only for those we know well, but also for strangers who may be quietly carrying a heavy burden.
Let’s choose to be encouragers—not just when the need is obvious, but as a way of life. When we do, we elevate others and truly lead with significance.
Encouragement costs little—but its return is immeasurable.
Let’s always remember to #beBetter.
John O’Leary says: “Read it now! This journey in Leading with Significance to build a magnetic workplace reveals not only where God, faith and belonging intersect to create a magnetic culture but practical ideas and poignant stories to ensure you create it within your organization.”
Grab your copy of Leading with Significance to find more magnetic insights to help you on your unique journey.
For more information on my presentations or to access my beBetter blog library go to joeyhavens.com.
