“Encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
In Romans 12, Paul lists some gifts of grace. Each believer is given different gifts by the Holy Spirit, and we may use these for the good of the church as a whole. In addition to prophesying, teaching and leading, Paul also lists “encouraging” or “exhorting” as such a valuable gift.
In the book of Acts, we regularly read how people went on journeys to encourage fellow believers. We also read how these encouragements were a great source of joy for the recipients. And that is quite understandable. After all, being a Christian is not always easy, especially in a society that is hostile to God. Or in difficult circumstances such as illness, unemployment, mourning or poverty. How we could use an arm around our shoulders and a few words of encouragement!
In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Paul mentions a great source of encouragement that we as believers may keep reminding each other of. One day Jesus will return and then all believers may be with Him forever. That is a great prospect that can give us strength to persevere when we are struggling!
How do you encourage others? Could you remind them of God’s wonderful promises?