Speak An Encouraging Word
But a good word makes it glad.
(Proverbs 12:25 NKJV)
God tells us to cast all our cares on Him (1 Peter 5:7) and not to be anxious (Philippians 4:6). However, sometimes while we are caught up in the midst of a trial, it is easy to forget to go to the Source of comfort and strength. This is where a word of encouragement from another believer can lift us up.
The Scriptures exhort us to use our words very deliberately for the good of others. Paul tells us to speak only good words that build up, encourage, and edify. He tells us that our words are a gift of grace to the hearer.
"Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers" (Ephesians 4:29),
The apostle Paul spoke encouragement on board a sinking ship:
"And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only the ship" (Acts 27:22).
Jesus spoke encouragement when the disciples' boat was sinking:
"But immediately Jesus spoke to them saying, 'Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid'" (Matthew 14:27).
The Lord spoke encouragement when Paul was being persecuted:
"But the following night the Lord stood by him and said, 'Be of good cheer, Paul; for as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome'" (Acts 23:11).
Speak in Compassion
Many people are weighed down and weary from heavy emotional loads and life struggles. They need to hear words from our hearts that give them strength to persevere through it all.
"Therefore, comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing" (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
Words are very powerful. Choosing the right ones can make the difference between cheering or disheartening. While you may be trying to show compassion , some things we say can add to another person's discouragement.
Instead of telling someone, "You look exhausted (tired, worn out, etc.)" try starting your conversation with "I am so glad to see you." There is no benefit in pointing out that her troubles are apparent in her face. Avoid using negative terms. Commiserating should lift your friend's heart, giving her a feeling of safe haven in your presence.
The book of Proverbs discusses the value of encouraging words.
"Pleasant words are like honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones" (16:24).
"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver" (25:11).
Speak in Sincerity
Develop the habit of really looking into your friends' faces as you speak to them. You cannot encourage someone if you offhandedly ask how she is doing and go about your business. Probe a little deeper, gently asking open ended questions while focusing your full attention on her. Encouragement takes time. Time is one gift we can give another that has lasting impact.
"Be kindly affectionate to one another with [sisterly] love, in honor giving preference to one another" (Romans 12:10).
Speak from the WordOur words of encouragement can come straight from Bible provided we are compassionate and sincere and don't use the Scripture to try to teach a lesson. It is not appropriate to hit someone who is in pain over the head with "should's and shouldn'ts." Encourage her to remember that God loves her.
"The Lord upholds all who fall, and raises up all who are bowed down" (Psalm 145:14).
She will only understand this in her distress as she sees your love for her acted out through your concern for her.
"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God" (1 John 4:7).
Speak to the Lord on Her Behalf
Begin each day with a prayer for guidance from the Lord so you can be aware of who needs encouragement. When you know a friend is in pain, raise her up to God in your quiet times. Ask Him to equip you to minister to her in the way He wants you to.
"Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous [woman] avails much" (James 5:16).
Remember that the strength of the Body of Christ comes from its individual members working in unity. When one part is hurting the whole Body should rush to the aid of the hurting member. Our effectiveness in sharing the Good News that Jesus gave His life to bring us depends on caring for one another and building a strong body of loving believers.
"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2).
Praying for your encouragement, dear sisters.
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