The Power of Encouragement
Wherever Apostle Paul went, he made it a point to encourage his friends. He understood the weariness that comes from opposition and how powerful encouragement is at reviving people into forward movement again.
Beloved, I have instilled the same powerful weapon in you.
In a world that is amping up opposition, I am calling you to rise up like Apostle Paul and encourage all those around you. A simple smile can restore hope. A kind word can melt away offence. A word of affirmation can replace a false label. Belief in someone can demolish fear. Declaring scripture can provide peace. A compliment can motivate a battered leader. Pointing people in the right direction can draw people back to Me.
Do you see how encouragement counteracts evil? It is such a simple act yet packs a powerful punch. I want to use you to break multitudes out of discouragement. Encourage people with your words. Target those who really need it. Then watch as I reward your own life with immeasurable faith, hope, and endurance as you witness the bountiful fruit that comes from your life-giving words.
Activation: If God has your yes, pray this aloud,
Father, I know what it is to be discouraged. Life can feel so hopeless at times. I also know how powerful it is when a brother or sister in Christ comes alongside me and encourages me. I want to be that for others. Plant the seed of encouragement within me now. Water it so I may be a mighty encourager for Your Kingdom to help draw people back to you and launch them into forward movement again. I declare that My encouraging words shall be backed by Your great power, and I will make a difference each and every day! In Jesus’s mighty name, Amen.
Now, challenge yourself to encourage at least one person daily until it becomes a habit!
Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
