Lessons learned about encouragement

Whilst speaking at Horam Chapel last Sunday I had a few people asking about my employment situation. This made me feel good (even though the answer I had to give them wasn't the one we all hoped for). Just people checking in with something that is very much alive in our life was uplifting for me. This made me think of ways we can uplift and affirm one another. Here are just a few:

Speaking. Proverbs 16:24 says, “Pleasant words are .. sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” The number of ways we can encourage one another through our speech is almost limitless. One way is to recognise verbally the positive qualities in others’ lives.

Writing. The New Testament epistles are proof of the power of written communication. Sometimes a short note to someone who’s discouraged can mean so much. Think creatively. For example, include a note in lunch boxes.

Being present. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted,” says Psalm 34:18. Sometimes God asks us simply to be with others in person on his behalf. We don’t have to speak much; our presence itself can be a deeply encouraging gift. I felt I had to go see a friend once who had just lost his best friend. When he opened the front door all I could say was 'the Bible tells me to mourn with those who mourn, I do not know what that means, but I am here" He welcomed me in and we just sat in his kitchen for a while.

Touching. Jesus often touched people. Scientists are just starting to document the positive effects of touch, which God has known about all along. From a light touch on the shoulder to a tight hug, these gestures encourage others wordlessly.

Praying. “You help us by your prayers,” Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 1:11. This ministry everyone can have. Combine this with the written if you have something special to share. Why not use text messages. Be creative.

Showing hospitality. “Practice hospitality,” says Romans 12:13. The Greek word for hospitality is more like a brotherly love of strangers. Practicing biblical hospitality means reaching out to them what need to experience the heartfelt compassion that comes with the extra plate on the table.

Giving. “A generous man will himself be blessed,” says Proverbs 22:9. God wants us to share our lives with others - our time, our money, our possessions. Any of these can be used creatively to encourage others.

Helping. Common jobs and chores - from housework, gardening, mending, shoveling snow, baby-sitting, can all become holy in the ministry of encouragement. “Whatever you do,” says Colossians 3:23, “work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”

How will you encourage someone ?