Have you ever been an encourager?
Webster's Dictionary gives the following definition:
encourage: to inspire with courage and hope...to give help.
Look around and try to help someone today who ís having a difficult time or passing through a trying circumstance in their life. There are many ways we can seek to encourage other believers.
Maybe a Christian young person is discouraged or disheartened. Go out of your way to spend some time with them, even if it means just being a good listener. Quote and share some Scripture that you have enjoyed yourself. Pray with them. Be a friend, etc.
Perhaps a mother needs help with her children. Perchance a babysitter for an hour or two so she can accomplish some chores or just do some much needed shopping.
There are many elderly saints who are feeling the weight of years, lonely, shut in, or isolated. Sit by their bed, share Christ, help out in some way. Perhaps they need someone to run an errand or take them to some appointment. Listen while they pour out their heart. Sympathize! Be tender and understanding.
Life is pressured in this fast paced society today. Many are simply weary of the daily grind, like the Children of Israel in Numbers 21:44And they journeyed from mount Hor by the way of the Red sea, to compass the land of Edom: and the soul of the people was much discouraged because of the way. (Numbers 21:4). "And the soul of the people was much discouraged because of the way." Take someone's hand and help them over a rough spot in their pathway. It doesn't take much to be an encourager. Be watchful Look for opportunities! On one occasion David and those who were with him became discouraged as circumstances seemed to overwhelm. The city of Ziklag had been burned with fire and many had been taken captive, including David's two wives. How beautiful to read, "But David encouraged himself in the Lord his God." 1 Samuel 30:66And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the Lord his God. (1 Samuel 30:6). As a result he was then able to encourage his men, and there was a great victory that day. What an example! Learn to encourage! It takes time, effort and self-sacrifice. But not only will others be strengthened and helped, but you will receive a blessing for your own soul too. Remember: "He that watereth shall be watered also himself." Proverbs 11:2525The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself. (Proverbs 11:25).
Encourage one another,
Encourage in the Lord;
There are so many fainting,
Who need a helpful word.
Buildup the saints -your brethren,
Inspire and strengthen each,
Until at last, o'ercomers,
The goal we finally reach.