She was young, pretty, and very nervous. When it was her turn to speak, this teenager did an awesome job of sharing how she witnesses to others. Afterwards, everyone around her told her how well she had done.
Do you encourage others when you see them face a challenge? Conquer a personal Goliath? Or simply do the right thing?
Sometimes we can get pretty caught up in our own struggles. It’s easy to forget to look around and see what others are facing.
So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle: Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation. And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them.
Act 15:30-32
The multitude rejoiced because they did not have to adhere to the Jewish rights and ceremonies. They were consoled. Judas and Silas also exhorted and confirmed them. In short, they encouraged them in the way they should go, and they strengthened them. This was a blessing to the hearers!
Many times a person is on the right track, but they will quit if the feedback is not there. It is not just that they may quit doing the right thing; they may quit doing a good thing. We really can be our own worst enemy in that way.
Do not assume that a person knows what you are thinking either. I tend to do that. Instead, go ahead and express it. It means so much when the feedback is unsolicited. Definitely speak up when you see someone doing something well – particularly when it is something for the Lord. Often people won’t realize how well they are doing, or that they have even made a difference.
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
Heb 3:13
A person needs encouragement daily. We tend to get caught up in the positives of the moment and the negatives of the past. Daily encouragement helps keep a person going in the right direction. It also helps give them perspective. It can balance out any lingering doubts they may have about what they are doing.
And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Heb 10:24-25
As the day approaches, evil will grow. Temptation will also increase. We need the fellowship, encouragement, and accountability of believers more and more. When you fellowship with others, see what you can give.
What can you bring to the table? Who can you help?
LIFE APPLICATION
Today’s challenge is to consider each person you meet today. Take the time to let them share with you what they are doing. Ask God to show you in what areas they need encouragement, and how you can best be an encouragement to them. This encouragement may be just what they need to stay on track or to take that next step toward success. Today, realize your winning potential as you let God use you to be a blessing to others.