Who have you encouraged today?
Encouragement is something we all need. And if you’ve been around church for a while, you’ll know that many Christians are pretty good at giving it - thanking the worship team, affirming a speaker after a Sunday service, or recognising when something went well.
But when was the last time someone intentionally encouraged you?
Not just a quick “well done,” but something specific,
“I saw you do this, and it was really good,” or
“I’ve noticed this about you, and it’s such a strength.
Even better, when was the last time you intentionally encouraged someone?
Have you ever pulled out a pair of shorts that you haven’t worn since the summer, to then put them on, reach into the pocket and find a £5 note.
Wow, what a feeling!
It’s not a huge amount of money - but it’s something. It’s unexpected. It lifts your mood. You’ll probably include that detail when someone asks about your day.
I think encouragement can have the same effect.
When someone offers genuine, intentional encouragement it can have a powerful impact. It might seem small in the moment, but it can stay with someone - shaping how they see themselves, influencing how they interact with others.
And here’s the thing: encouragement costs very little to give, but it can be incredibly valuable to receive.
How might this play out with your non-Christian friends?
If you’re anything like me, you might find that intentional encouragement isn’t something they’re used to. The practice of true encouragement is not commonly practiced in our culture, making it a hard thing to receive. I find they either play it down or assume I’m joking. It’s just not something that they’re used to.
And maybe that’s where its real value lies - Let me explain.
Hebrews 3:13 tells us to ‘encourage one another daily’. This little phrase comes from a passage that is addressing the Hebrews to cling to Christ and depart from evil. Encouragement is not the antidote to a sin-free life, but is a powerful practice in pointing others to Christ!
Encouragement is valuable because it witnesses Jesus so that one may encounter him - whether for the first time or all over again.
What a wonderful spiritual practice to take up!
So, who have you encouraged today?
I have a challenge for you, it should take no longer than five minutes!
Get out your phone and call that friend you want to encourage - maybe it could be that mate who isn’t a Christian yet.
Say something like, ‘Hey, this may feel random, but I just wanted to say I really appreciate this about you. I’ve noticed it, and I think it’s really great, and I want to affirm it in you.’ (this is a guide not a script!)
It doesn’t have to be big or profound, it just has to be real. And trust me, it’ll go a long way.
As I finish this blog I want to ask you one more question,
Who’s encouraging you?
We all need encouragement - whether you’re a student or a pastor, in good times and in hard times - So, who can you ask to intentionally and regularly speak encouragement into your life? Don’t be afraid to ask, people are usually more honoured than burdened with this.
Here at Fusion, we love to encourage you in your ministry and journey with Jesus - So, please do reach out and we can encourage you through coaching, training, and prayer.
