Christian Living

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Have you ever paid close attention to those around you and to those you pass each day? Have you ever noticed the number of people who return faint or forced smiles, have that faraway look in there eyes, or walk by with downcast eyes? Although it might be daydreaming, many of the people you see each day are struggling just to make it from day to day.

Many are discouraged or hurting, and dealing with difficult problems. Jobs create stress. Children are difficult to manage. Friends disappoint. Money problems mount up. Health problems cause worry. And sometimes, things just don't go seem to be going right! Discouragement overshadows their every step and clouds their thoughts.

Such people need help. They need your help! Why you? Because God has a role for all Christians in ministering to these people. Be an encourager! In fact, God commands it. Consider your duty to “be an encourager,” as the eleventh commandment. Read the following verses (NASB®):

Is 35:3 Encourage the exhausted, and strengthen the feeble.
1 Thess 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing.
1 Thess 5:14 We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
Heb 3:13 But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called "Today," so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.

Why do I call the above verses the eleventh commandment, and why should we follow it faithfully? First, because God commands it. This command is not qualified, or limited in its scope. It includes every Christian.

Second, a word of encouragement can help someone deal with the problems they face. Just as Paul says in I Thessalonians, it builds them up so they can continue. It let's them know that someone cares about them. And that caring is important because it reflects God's love. Through you, God's love can become the sustaining force they need to make it from day to day.

Third, it builds positive feelings and eventually, positive relationships with those you encourage. Positive relationships are beneficial whether they are in the work place, home or a social setting. Life is less stressful when we have positive relationships.

Fourth, it often offers a way to subtly let people know of your Christian faith. This can be especially effective in a work or social situation where you cannot speak freely.

Fifth, it will eventually earn you the right, and offer you the opportunity to witness to those who are lost, or to be of service to a fellow Christian. Most people simply will not listen to you until you have their confidence and trust. Offering words of encouragement is one way to help build that confidence and trust.

Sixth, its makes you feel good. Have you ever noticed how you always feel better after you have done something to help someone in their time of need?

Seventh, obedience to God's word not only improves our relationship with God, but is always pleasing to Him. As a Christian, knowing that you are doing something that is pleasing to God brings its own special blessings and joy.

So, encourage someone everyday!

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