You probably didn't expect to see Stephen Tyler's picture in a post of mine, DID you? I surprise myself! I am quite unfamiliar with his background or musical accomplishments. Pop music and pop culture are not my forte! I've never watched American Idol in the past, but for some reason I was in front of the TV for its first show this season. And now, I keep checkin' in.I don't think I've ever watched a complete show, but I AM captivated by this man. Once I got past his face and unusual appearance, I have been taking lessons on how to be an encourager!
Encouragement is a much-needed "ministry" in the church and in the world today. While many examples exist in the Bible, one man was nick-named "Son of Encouragement" because of his reputation. Barnabas' given name was Joses or Joseph, but the apostles gave him the name Barnabas which means "Son of Encouragement or Exhortation" (Acts 4:36). I read more about him in Acts 11:24...
I like what I observe in Stephen Tyler. His words, his facial expressions, the kindness in his eyes, his pleasure in the talent of the young "idols", his appreciation of a good song all seem to elevate the cast of remarkable talents to even higher levels of performance.
I want to be an increasingly better encourager! I've been taking lessons!
Amen.....I too like to watch him be kind and gentle. I was surprised but I too did not know anything about him but he was a rocker. Encouragement and Positiveness are an important part of growing.
ReplyDeleteBlessings
Janet
Yes, Janet! Even his "criticism" is couched in kindness and gentleness!
ReplyDeleteWow, what a great post! I have never watched American Idol and was only vaguely aware of Stephen Tyler's style of music. Being the conservative that I am, I probably would have not expected him to be the person you describe. My bad...shouldn't judge a book by the proverbial cover. We all need to be encouragers and inspire others to pass it on. Once again, you have provided food for thought.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you! I have seen other bloggers talking about him and like you and I, none of us have listened to his music, nor know anything about him, but what is coming out through American Idol we are liking him. I believe God is showing us a lot of things through him...you can't judge a book by the cover, God can use who He wants, when He wants to encourage others...he did use a donkey in the Bible (not saying he is a donkey)..and so much more. I too have been inspired in encouragement through this man who I didn't even know before this season.
ReplyDeleteYou know, I've been quite surprised by him myself. At first, his foul language was offputting. But, as I looked beneath the surface/exterior, I could - like you - see a heart filled with an awful lot of humility. He is so refreshing!
ReplyDeleteIf it's true (and I believe it is) that we speak from the overflow of our hearts, then I'm thinking this man just may belong to the Lord. I pray it is so; or will be soon.
Blessings,
Kathleen
We all need to be better encouragers.
ReplyDeleteBlessings and prayers,
andrea
Stephen Tyler has lived a lot of BIG life. He's done a lot of things that weren't so good in his past. As have I.
ReplyDeleteThe good thing about having a not so great past is that you learn a lot. And if you are fortunate enough to survive and learn from the past mistakes, it makes one stronger, wiser, more sympathetic to others and most importantly, grateful to be given a second chance to make a better life.
If you've been through all of that it puts one into a position to help and understand other peoples shortcomings.
As Jesus died on the cross for all of our sins, as we have all been forgiven, it's nice to be able to help others through our own first hand experience.
Love Di ♥
Although I do know who Stephen Tyler is, I haven't been watching American Idol. Now my curiosity is peaked and I will try to catch it next time its on. It would certainly be a change from Simon Cowell who was so lacking kindness!
ReplyDeleteIsn't amazing where we can see a lesson that Christ want's to reinforce in us. We've got to keep those eyes open!
Pat, I don't know if YOU'LL find it so, but I think the talent is AMAZING!
ReplyDeleteI know Steven Tyler as I was at one time-
ReplyDeletepre-Jesus-a big Aerosmith fan. Steven has
always been a kind and gentle man though
he lacks any interest in knowing Christ
or living a respectable life.
Huge Idol fans, we are. I didn't think I'd like it this year, given the new judges. But I love it, minus the "bleeping" for bad language. You're right, it's a much kinder, gentler panel and Steven Tyler is leading the way.
ReplyDeleteYou're right, the church could take a lesson here. I've certainly been the benefactor of strong encouragement over the years. I pray to return the kindness to others.
peace~elaine
I am so glad you talked about Steven Tyler and American Idol. It gives me a chance to vent my own feelings! :)
ReplyDeleteI only knew he was a rocker. I thought it would be disappointing this year with the new judges... I was so wrong! I didn't see the first one, but saw the episode with Tyler and the girl in the wheelchair, I was hooked! I forgot anything I had heard about him and watched a caring heart in action. He was not concerned with the cameras or audience, just caring for this sweet girl. All our kids felt the same, he touched our hearts by his unabashed concern for her.
And I also love J.Lo... she is such a caring and encouraging heart. Not to mention that the talent this year is over the top. They are really good!
I am praying for the judges and the kids. It would be so awesome to hear a story of their faith in Jesus, wouldn't it?
Anyway... I'm right there with the rest of you on this one!
Rebecca,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your kind words on my blog and I agree, we could all become better encouragers. Every now and then I realize that I am not very good at affirming others and I take it to heart and try harder. Blessings Meg
Sonja, my husband read something in USA Today that made him think that the young man who sings country-western is a Christ-follower! (I didn't read it myself...)
ReplyDeleteMy daughters and I spoke at a Women's meeting tonight on this very subject. Steps to developing an intuitive insight to know when someone needs sheltering. It's awesome to meet someone in a "secular" realm that sees the importance of encouragement.
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