The Discipline of Encouragement
Speaking Life on Purpose
Have you ever had someone speak something over you that made you feel truly known and seen? Maybe it was a parent, teacher, friend, or spouse who recognized something in you, called it out, and encouraged you to bring it to light. Because of their words, maybe you found the confidence to become top of your class, start a new business, or take some other leap of faith. Their encouragement gave you the courage you needed to move forward.
Moments like these are often pivotal in our personal stories. They are powerful moments of influence that may happen only a handful of times in our lives, yet they can shape our paths forever. But what would happen if the body of Christ spoke this way to one another regularly? What if we made it our mission to encourage each other as often as possible?
God’s Word tells us that “death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21). When was the last time we truly took that seriously? In today’s world, we often hear words that bring death rather than life. But Scripture calls us to be countercultural. We are instructed to “spur one another on” (Hebrews 10:24). We are called to encourage one another and speak life over each other.
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
So how do we do this? Unfortunately, becoming this kind of encourager does not always come naturally. It requires us to slow down and truly pay attention to others. We must listen carefully and genuinely hear what people are saying. We need to notice the skills and talents of those around us. We should become aware when someone seems timid or is struggling in a particular area of life. Only then can we intentionally call out and encourage the unique gifts, interests, and personalities the Lord has given them.
We also need to remain rooted in prayer. Ask the Lord to guide your words as you interact with others. Be still and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you. He will give you the right words to encourage someone; we simply need to be bold enough to speak them.
Being a godly encourager may also require us to step outside our comfort zones in another way. Sometimes encouragement means lovingly calling someone away from sin. These conversations can feel uncomfortable, but when they are approached with grace and love, they can become some of the most pivotal and encouraging moments in a person’s life. A gentle rebuke paired with loving encouragement may feel messy in the moment, but it can also become the catalyst for growth and deeper relationships.
These conversations can feel uncomfortable, but when they are approached with grace and love, they can become some of the most pivotal and encouraging moments in a person’s life.
As we strive to become encouragers, we must also allow ourselves to be encouraged. Slow down and truly receive the words of encouragement that come from members of your church or community. Receive correction with humility. Pray continually and ask the Lord to use others to speak truth into your life. And when He does, allow His words of love to wash over you.
Becoming a woman who overflows with encouragement takes practice. Like any muscle, it grows stronger with repetition. Take intentional steps each day to encourage others through your conversations and prayers. Slow down and truly listen to the people around you. Continually examine your heart to ensure you are open to receiving encouragement as well. May our words be sweeter than honey to everyone we meet (Proverbs 16:24).
