10 Practical Ideas for Gospel-Centered Encouragement
Encouragement matters. I’m sure you can think of a time or two…or ten…when you felt beat down or tired or when you were ready to throw in the towel. Someone’s words of encouragement can lift you out of the darkest pits. If that’s true for you, which it is, it’s true that others need your encouragement. They need to hear “well done,” and they need to experience “let’s try this together instead.” Among the many “one anothers” in the New Testament, “encourage one another” is an essential. Here are 10 practical ideas for infusing Gospel-centered encouragement into our everyday lives:
Send a Personal Note: There's something special about receiving a handwritten note or an encouraging message, especially in this digital age. Take a moment to write a note of affirmation, sharing how someone's actions or character reflect the character of Christ. Let them know their good works have been seen (even and especially if they aren’t doing them to be seen). This encouragement could be as simple as thanking them for their kindness or acknowledging their perseverance in difficult times.
Offer a Listening Ear: Sometimes, the best way to encourage someone is to simply be there for them. Set aside time to listen attentively to their joys, struggles, and everything in between. Proverbs 18:13 and James 1:19 reminds us that listening before speaking is a godly character trait and is a mark of wisdom and empathy. It shows you truly care, and what encouragement that is!
Pray Together: Prayer is the most powerful expression of support. Take the opportunity to pray with someone, lifting up their concerns and hopes to God. James 5:16 assures us that our prayers are effective, bringing comfort and strength to those who need it most. Don’t wait until later to pray. Pray for someone that moment. And if you aren’t with them, send them a quick text to let them know you just prayed for them.
Share Relevant Scripture: The Bible is FULL of promises and truths that bring comfort and encouragement. Share a verse or passage that speaks directly to someone's situation, reminding them of God's faithfulness and care. Romans 15:4 assures us that the Scriptures were written for our encouragement and hope. So share it!
Celebrate Achievements: Whether big or small, achievements are worth celebrating. Take the time to acknowledge and celebrate the milestones and victories of those around you. Proverbs 11:25 reminds us that generosity and encouragement go hand in hand, enriching both the giver and the receiver.
Offer Practical Help: Sometimes, encouragement comes in the form of practical assistance. Come alongside someone to lend a helping hand with tasks, errands, or projects, which helps lighten their load. Galatians 6:2 encourages us to bear one another's burdens, fulfilling the law of Christ. If someone is not doing something well, instead of criticizing them, lovingly come alongside them and walk with them. Mentorship is an incredible form of encouragement that can outlive your own life.
Speak Truth in Love: Encouragement isn't always about sugarcoating; sometimes, it's about speaking truth in love. Offer gentle guidance or constructive feedback when necessary, always with the intention of building up rather than tearing down. Ephesians 4:15 reminds us to speak the truth in love, growing together in Christ. Be aware of your motives and tone. Even if you have the right motives, the wrong tone will make it not come across as encouragement.
Lead by Example: Be an encouragement by living out your faith authentically. Let your actions reflect the love and compassion of Christ, inspiring others to follow your example. 1 Timothy 4:12 encourages us to set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, regardless of our age or circumstances. Paul told those he was encouraging to follow him as he followed Christ. Seeing you be faithful and persevere through difficult times is great encouragement for others who are amidst difficult times.
Be Specific: When someone hears a word you appreciated they said or an action you noticed them perform, and you point out that specific instance, it means a lot more than when you simply say, “You’re doing a great job.” It means you actually saw them. You actually listened. Their life impacted you in some way, even if a little. And that is great encouragement to anyone.
Point to Jesus: Ultimately, our greatest source of encouragement is found in Jesus Christ himself. Hebrews 12:2 encourages us to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. When we point people to Jesus, that’s the greatest form of encouragement we can practice.
Incorporating these practical ideas into our daily lives can make a world of difference in how we encourage and support one another. Let's commit to being intentional about lifting each other up with the hope and love of the Gospel, making our walk with Christ richer and more meaningful together.
