Friday, May 6, 2011

Need a little Encouragement?

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up..." 1 Thessalonians 5:11a (NIV)

Encourage - to give courage to someone to stand, to move on, to take a chance

That's what we are called to do...

To encourage others to take a stand for Christ among their peers
To encourage others to move on from past mistakes, hurts and bad habits
To encourage others to take a chance - to dare to step out and do what they feel God calling them to do

These things take courage - incredible courage in some cases, and it's easy to let fear hold us back. Perhaps it's the fear of rejection by someone we care for, perhaps it's the fear of embarrassment or failure, but we need not be afraid, because we are not alone. God is with us, but it's also good to know that there is another human being standing with you.

It's easier when you know that someone "has your back" - when someone is on your side, cheering you on, when someone believes in you.  We all want someone in our lives like that. We all want an encourager, so why not start by being an encourager in the lives of those around you?

"...A man reaps what he sows. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." Galatians 6:7a, 9, 10 (NIV)

Prayer:
Father, open our eyes to those around us who are in need of encouragement. Help us to give to them the kind of encouragement we would like from others. Strengthen our relationships with others through the gift of Encouragement. Amen


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(Copyright© 2011 Jan Christiansen. All rights reserved.)

3 comments:

Unknown said...

Hi! I found your blog on Faithful Bloggers. Have you ever read My Utmost for His Highest? I have posted many of their devotionals and would like to invite you to come and read some of them. Have a wonderful weekend...Tamara @ God's Perfect Promises

Joy said...

Thanks for this "encouraging word"!
You have made a difference in my life by always encouraging me to pick up and go on. Thanks so much for sharing God's love and patience with me.
Luv ya Sister!

Debbie Petras said...

We all need encouragement along the way. Life can be challenging after all. I pray that I am an encourager to others too.

Btw, I received your book! Thank you. I look forward to reading it.

Blessings and love,
Debbie