Encourage One Another

9-17-2012 by Boyd Bailey “He [Christ] died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 1Thessalonians 5:10-11 Courage in Christ is a gift Christians have to give one another. It is a boldness of belief bent on bettering others. Daily life drains courage from a person’s heart, but believers are able to fill with encouragement what unrighteousness removes with discouragement. Saintly support comes when a person is aware that someone knows and cares about them. There is an emotional engagement that flows from an inner desire to be there for a needy friend. Our encouragement is like being an ambassador from Almighty God. We represent Jesus to His followers and to those who have not come to faith. It’s when people see Jesus in our actions and attitudes that they are drawn to personally know Him. Yes, our encouragement is a conduit for Christ! We give a cup of courage in Jesus’ name, and the thirsty recipient tastes that the Lord is good. Their soul then seeks to drink the living water of Christ. “Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” John 4:13-14 Your encouragement builds up the hope, faith and love of another loved one. Over coffee, an acquaintance hears from you that they matter, because they matter to God. Your words of truth grow confidence in a character who struggles to be consistent with Christ’s commands. Encouragement challenges as well as comforts. Most do not complain of too much encouragement, but many quietly crave more. Most of all be encouraged by Jesus. Invite Him to invigorate your faith and rejuvenate your passion. Christ is your biggest cheerleader. His courage is limitless and breeds bravery. His eternal energy engages your soul to persevere as a praying parent, to be patient in whom to marry, to serve in your church and to give a kind word to a stranger. Be encouraged by Christ, so you can encourage another. Encouragement gives courage! “Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.” 2 Corinthians 13:11 Prayer: Heavenly Father, thanks for encouraging me to encourage others. Related Readings: Job 16:5; Act 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 4:18; Hebrews 3:13