One of the simplest ways to bless people around you is through the gift of encouragement. And all it takes to be a great encourager is to look out for the needs of others. Take a look at 1 Thessalonians 5:14:
“We urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.”
From this passage, there are three ways we can become great encouragers.
- Look out for the idle. There are many who are merely spectators in the Christian life. Whether it’s out of fear or lack of motivation, the idle amongst us need our help and encouragement to get involved in serving others. Often, it is not until people serve that they truly feel like they belong.
- Get alongside the timid. People often have a huge passion for the world, but if they don’t step out boldly with their faith, that passion won’t help anyone. Encourage timid believers by standing alongside them as they work at being brave for Christ.
- Recognize those who are weak in the faith. These are the people who are easily knocked off their feet spiritually. Give them a little bit of a shake or a small tremor and they collapse under it! Make it a goal to build them up in their faith. Go out of your way to encourage them and help them mature and grow.
Are you ready to be a great encourager? Then look around you and identify the idle, timid, and weak this week. And when you have, encourage them in their faith so one day they will have the strength to be an encouragement to others.
Are you in need of encouragement? If you are feeling weak in faith and in need of help, seek the encouragement of a more mature believer. Don’t be afraid! Speak to your pastor or a trusted member of your church and get the encouragement you need to persevere in your walk with Jesus!