Encourage One Another

Wednesday June 18, 2014

A recent search for the word "encourage" in the Bible brought 92 direct references.  This is obviously a theme that matters to God. 

So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.  (1 Thessalonians 5:11 NLT)




Those of us who are strong and able in the faith need to step in and lend a hand to those who falter, and not just do what is most convenient for us. Strength is for service, not status. Each one of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, “How can I help?” (Romans 15:1-2 MSG)

The dictionary definition of "encourage" includes these ideas:  to give support, confidence or hope; help or stimulate to develop.  SYNONYMS:  hearten, buoy up, inspire, motivate, spur on, fire up, revitalize, urge, promote. Nurture, champion, cultivate, strengthen.

When we love and care for a person our desire is for their very best in life. When our friends or loved ones are struggling with a problem we need to take the time to talk with them and try to understand what is happening in their lives.  Sometimes just discussing a problem may help the person find a solution and possibly resolve the issue.  Sometimes the problem is not easy to resolve quickly and we can encourage the person by following up on our discussion with a phone call, a note, another meeting or whatever it takes to help the person get through the troublesome time.




Showing others that we truly care about them is encouragement to them whether the problem is resolved or not.  Where would we be if God had not come alongside us when we struggled and encouraged us to try again?  God invites us today to comfort and encourage others with the kind of comfort and encouragement we have received.  Let’s look around today and see the opportunities that await us to encourage others.





©2014 Partners in Hope  
More information on this and other related topics @ www.partnersinhope.ca/resources

Audio for Encourage One Another

Giving Hope

Partners in Hope is supported wholly by our friends and community. We are thankful to everyone who partners with us to help bring hope to the discouraged, hurting, and hopeless.