Why are we called to encourage?
Why are we called to encourage? In Hebrews 3:13, we are told to “encourage one another daily.” Then, in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, it says, “encourage one another and build one another up.” We also learn in Proverbs 12:25 that, “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.”
So, with this in mind, we have to wonder why – why is it so important to God that we encourage one another? Are we doing all we can to share God’s love with our brothers and sisters? And, not to mention, who does God want us to encourage?
Let’s explore:
Why is it so important to God that we encourage one another?
We all know this world can be tough. It’s easy to lose sight of what’s truly important in a world where we are dealing with daily strife, uphill battles and the looming pressure to make everything okay. Many experience discouragement and this leads to giving in – throwing in the towel and saying “nevermind, I give up.” This is where encouraging others is essential. This is where God uses His people to speak truth to our hearts to remind us that He has overcome the world (John 16:33) and that He has plans to prosper us and not to harm us (Jeremiah 29:11). We must encourage one another so that we can bring glory to God not just in our lives, but in the lives of those around us as well. Must we never forget 1 John 3:16 where we learn the true meaning of love – “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.”
Are we doing all we can to share God’s love with our brothers and sisters?
Just think about it for a second – we’re good people, right? We open doors for strangers, smile at dirty, oil-changing men at the service station and we even cleaned up a little after the potluck last Sunday. But, what we must ask ourselves is are we giving it all we got, or are we just doing the bare minimum by being polite and personable while keeping our hands clean at the same time. We invite you to spend some quiet time with God. Ask Him to shine His light on new ways for you to share His love. Ask Him to give you the strength to pursue the doors He is opening in your life and to give you the tools and passion needed to reach out in His name and truly make an impact for the Kingdom.
Who has God called us to encourage?
While many of us feel a strong need to encourage the people we love, it’s somewhat a little harder to reach out to those whom we don’t really care for. Let’s be honest – how many times have you encouraged someone who has been downright rude to you, or someone that you believe is on the wrong path in life? I mean, really, how easy is it to overlook the elderly person who is taking too long at the supermarket or the hateful neighbor who just loves to complain about your dogs or the homeless man who you pass every day on your way to work? However, in Matthew 7: 1-29 it says, “Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?” We must be willing to look outside of our box, forgive as God has forgiven us (Ephesians 4:32), and reach out beyond our comfort zone to reach those who may need a little extra attention.
Today, we invite you to join us while we work towards learning more about how, where and when God has called us to encourage others in our 21 Days of Encouragement! We have all the tools you need — including free shareable e-cards, encouragement cards, small gifts and many other resources to help you share the love of Jesus. Take the challenge and start encouraging today!
Source: (http://www.dayspring.com/articles/why-are-we-called-to-encourage)
It is my heart's desire to see women walk in their true power and authority in Jesus Christ. I get the honor of walking that out in my writing, speaking and everyday life.
With a cold latte in hand and my latest read under my arm, I'm usually seen going over math facts, checking out a new STEM project and studying God's Word. In my spare time, you will catch me spending time with family and friends, at live music festivals and on the hunt for a new favorite dessert.
www.angelpenn.com
- Parents, You Can Trust God with Your Adult Children - July 25, 2018
- 6 Faith-Filled and Fun Family Ideas For The Summer - June 29, 2018
- Self Care for the Wife Who’s Marriage has been Rocked - June 23, 2018
Angel, thank you for this gentle reminder and sharing all of the scriptures to encourage us to encourage others!
Great post Angel😍
Thanks so much Lisa! I am glad that you enjoyed it! Bless you friend!
You’re such a blessing dear friend! So encouraging!
From one encourager to another, thank you my dear friend!
Great Read! I am going to do my best to encourage others whenever the opportunity presents.
Kim, I am so glad that you had the chance to check it out. You have such a sweet spirit so encouraging others comes so easy for you. You are a blessing!
Beautiful! Thanks for your encouraging heart everyday Angel!