There is a command throughout the Bible to encourage one another, to bless one another with Christian Encouragement. Here is somewhat of a “checklist” if you will, of how to offer Christian Encouragement!
Build Each Other Up
If you see something, say something! A spoken word of encouragement given at the “right time” can mean so much. It can push someone through a valley, or give joy to their spirit. You never know the impact of a kind and encouraging word. In today’s world maybe that doesn’t always mean saying it in person, maybe it’s a text, a phone call or letter in the mail. However you spread christian encouragement, let us build one another up with words.
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Live In Peace
Though at times this can be a challenge, part of christian encouragement is to make every possible attempt to live in peace. Not everyone is going to like us and we are not going to like everyone. Nor is everyone going to agree with us or are we going to agree with everyone. This does not negate our call to live in peace as best we can. This includes creating healthy boundaries as well as not seeking revenge or retaliation. When we live in peace it is christian encouragement for our own minds and hearts but also for those around us. We can live in peace by the grace of God for the body of Christ.
“When they hurled insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats” 1 Peter 2:23
“Make every effort to live in peace with all people and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14
Encourage the Timid
One of our roles to give Christian Encouragement is to encourage the timid! We all ebb and flow through seasons of doubt, distraction or struggle. During these seasons we need help collecting the evidence of God’s character. When you’re encouraging someone who is timid in their faith – remind them of who God is and all that He has done. Remind them of God’s promises and who they are in Him. A child of the most high King, A King who is provider and faithful! This is our song of encouragement.
“Hold fast to the faith you profess, for the one who has promised is faithful” Hebrews 10:23
Challenge the Idle
Part of christian encouragement is to be honest, especially with other believers. I love the way the ESV translates the command to challenge the idle in 1 Thessalonians 5:14. We’re reminded here that the Greek word idle “atakos” holds a meaning of being undisciplined. If we see a fellow believer struggling we can give them a challenge – in love – to stay disciplined. Encouraging them to return to a faith of self discipline, perhaps even when they don’t feel like it.
‘The Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline’ 2 Timothy 1:7
I love this reminder from my friend Lindsey over at Nourish Move Love on this topic. Check that out HERE.
Pray & Give Thanks
The final step on our checklist for Christian encouragement is to pray and give thanks! I love how Paul closes out the book of 1 Thessalonians. He prays for his fellow believers and gives thanks to God for them. He prays for their continued sanctification through the God of Peace. I love that! While we can give christian encouragement and make it known to others, how beautiful to encourage someone through giving thanks for them and asking the God of peace to continue to sanctify!
“May the God of peace himself sanctify you completely and may your whole spirit and souldapnd body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” 1 Thessalonians 5:23
As you continue to walk in step with the Spirit, giving Christian Encouraging to believers and otherwise, I pray you find these steps helpful. May they help you to Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul and with all your mind.
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