Here’s the deal: I’m an introvert. Even when I’m with my closest friends, I don’t always talk. Yet I care deeply about others. I don’t often know what to say or do when those I love are hurting. Perhaps you can relate?
I’m discovering there are still ways I can encourage others–ways that are meaningful for them and authentic for me. I’d love to help you explore what that might look like for you.
Let’s not let fear, awkwardness, or guilt prevent us from encouraging those we care about. Let’s commit to showing up and being present in their pain–just like God is present with us in ours–so they know they’re not alone.
Let’s encourage one another,
Hi, I’m Kari Bartkus.
If there’s anything I’ve learned about coming alongside those who are hurting, it’s this: I don’t have much encouragement to offer to others if I haven’t been spending time with Jesus.
Perhaps you see it in your own life: a shorter frustration fuse so that even the “little things” bother you more than they should, a lack of empathy that your daughter just stubbed her toe and is in a great deal of pain, a gradual grumpiness that seeps into interactions with your family.
How do we encourage others when we’re coming from a place like that?
Instead, we need to abide with Jesus through Bible study, prayer, and other spiritual practices. Then Jesus can bear His fruit in us–patience, love, gentleness, joy–and that’s what others begin to see.
But you don’t have to do this alone. My background is a blend of communication, spiritual direction, and ministry, and I use that to not only equip you to reach out to those who are hurting, but also to encourage you in your relationship with Christ.
We’re talking practical steps and biblical truths. All in the context of teaching you how to care for those in your neck of the woods.
Incorporating Art into My Faith
When I was little, I loved art. Mostly drawing. I took summer art classes. I filled my sketchbooks at home. We even started an art club at my school when I was in sixth grade.
But I also loved to write. And by the time I got to high school, I had to make a choice: art or writing?
I chose writing.
When we started Love Does That, it was really just a place for us to share the Imagine Bible study devotional. But then I started diving into art again and found that it was a great way to pray. Because sometimes, there are no words. Especially when someone is hurting. I often create a card, a Tear Bottle, or an art piece as an act of prayer.
And so, God has brought writing and art back together in my life. I’m so glad I don’t have to choose anymore.
Do you like to write?
I do, too.
Words are some of my favorite things. I’ve been a freelance editor for over a decade, and while I do more writing myself these days, I still have a special place in my heart for editing and proofreading, particularly for those whose mission is to inspire and encourage others.
No matter how many times you go over a manuscript, it’s easy to overlook mistakes and typos because you’ve been over it so many times. You’re familiar with it. It’s something you’ve worked with for months, years even.
If you’ve got a manuscript that you’d like an extra set of eyes on, I’d love to talk with you and see if I can help you get it ready to publish.
Little Tidbits & Trivia
- Love Does That wouldn’t be here without my husband Mike’s support and encouragement.
- I love Jesus.
- We live in a tiny town in Indiana with our elementary-aged daughter and toddler son.
- I like vanilla chai. Maybe a little bit too much.
- My Master’s degree is in Communication. I loved diving into the worlds of rhetoric (a fancy name for public speaking) and transformational leadership communication (a fancy way to say “leading people through change”).
- Daniel Tiger is my favorite kids show.
- When we get a delivery, Mike assumes it’s a new book for me.
- I love to take classes and learn. (Is there a way to get paid for that?)
- I’m an identical twin.
- We have a black long-haired teacup chihuahua named Hero. Super Hero, to be exact.
I’d love to hear a bit about you.
Would you take a moment to share? Just fill out the form below.
