Encourage Each Other

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

One of Paul’s companions in spreading the gospel was a man who was known as “the son of encouragement.” You may know him as Barnabas. Barnabas was by Paul’s side defending and encouraging him in the Lord, helping others to recognize that this former church persecutor was now an apostle that God was using to spread the good news of Christ. 

We all need a Barnabas in our lives. In these uncertain times, we need someone to come alongside us and build us up, to encourage us to keep fighting the good fight of faith. God is calling each of us to be sons and daughters of encouragement. If you already do that, good. Keep doing it. Let’s not assume that those around us are all strong and doing well in the faith. So many people are discouraged and need that little extra boost to keep them in the fight, even people you might not suspect. 

There are a myriad of ways you can be a son or daughter of encouragement. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Let someone know that you’re praying for them.

• Offer specific words of encouragement.

• Send a note of encouragement or send flowers.

• Celebrate someone with a surprise party for no reason.

• Leave “Post-it” notes with words of encouragement in special places.

• Ask someone how they are doing and really listen to their response.

I hope these ideas will jumpstart you to encourage others regularly. We all need encouragement. In whatever way you choose to be an encourager, remember the words of Proverbs 11:25, “Those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.”