Dear Church Family,
Have you ever gone long stretches of time without any encouragement in your life? Maybe you experienced this at your job, school, church or even in your family. Sadly, the lack of encouragement leads to discouragement in life. It should not be this way in life, especially if we are followers of Jesus Christ!
In a world growing increasingly cynical and self-centered, encouragement is more than just a kind gesture—it’s a biblical mandate. For believers committed to the authority of Scripture and the lordship of Christ, encouragement is not optional; it’s a vital part of our calling in the body of Christ.
The Apostle Paul, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, exhorts the church in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” Encouragement is not a side ministry; it is core to the Christian life. God did not design us to walk alone. In fact, Scripture is filled with examples of saints whose strength was renewed by timely words and faithful companions.
Proverbs 12:25 reminds us, “Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” That “good word” is not flattery or empty positivity—it is truth spoken in love, grounded in the promises of God. Encouragement is one way we remind one another of what is eternally true, even when life feels uncertain.
Encouragement is more than emotional support; it is spiritual nourishment. It strengthens the weary (Isaiah 40:29), it restores hope (Romans 15:4), and it reorients our focus from earthly troubles to our heavenly calling (Colossians 3:2).
Consider Barnabas—whose very name means “son of encouragement.” While others doubted Paul’s conversion, Barnabas stood by him (Acts 9:27). When John Mark failed on the mission field, Barnabas gave him a second chance (Acts 15:36–39). Through his encouragement, others were restored, empowered, and used mightily by God.
In the same way, we are called to be people who come alongside others—not just in good times, but especially in the hard ones. This is not merely about temperament or personality; it’s about obedience to Christ and love for His church.
Practical Ways to Encourage
1. Speak Scripture into Struggles – Let your encouragement be rooted in God’s promises, not mere platitudes.
2. Be Present and Available – Sometimes, your presence is encouragement enough.
3. Celebrate Faithfulness, Not Just Success – The world rewards results; we celebrate obedience.
4. Pray Specifically and Let Them Know – A prayed-for believer is a strengthened believer.
5. Write It Down – A handwritten note or even a text message can echo in someone’s heart for years.
In these turbulent times—where believers face cultural pressure, doctrinal confusion, and personal trials—the ministry of encouragement is not a luxury. It is a lifeline. When we encourage one another, we are not simply boosting morale—we are building up the body of Christ, strengthening the saints for battle, and glorifying God.
Let us then obey Hebrews 10:24–25: “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together... But encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
I love you and I love being your pastor,
