We are called to encourage one another. Hebrews 13:3 says, "But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness." And I Thessalonians 5:11 says, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."
Words....they can build up or tear down. Have you considered whether your words build up or tear down? I have to be honest, I have a teenage daughter; I lover her dearly but in the heat of an argument I saw very hurtful words....words that I cannot take back and that she remembers. I do strive to encourage and build up my daughter and everyone that I am around but on some days I fail miserably.
Paul and Barnabas were great encouragers during their missionary journies. Paul wrote to the church at Phililppi in Philippians 4:4-9 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. What encouragement!
Do you know a Barnabas? Are you a Barnabas? Strive to be a source of encouragement for others.
