Encouraging Those Who are In Need of Upliftment

Brothers, rejoice. Perfect yourselves; encourage yourselves; mind the same thing; be at peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. [2Cor 13:11]

Julie Leslie belongs to the Victory Christian Fellowship in India. I've known her as "julie for jesus" at Multiply. Julie is connected to many prayer groups intercessors from different countries via the internet. Many people send daily prayer requests to Julie: Hindus, Moslems, Americans, Europeans and Asians. This compiling, sending out, praying for them is a commitment. Many people are requesting for prayer and encouragement. There was one specific request reached Julie after she spent a short vacation. Julie got back, she found out that during a brief absence an urgent encouragement was needed for Natalie who lived in New Jersey, USA. Natalie was almost on the verge of suicide. Julie emailed us to pray for Natalie and requested if we could send some nice words of encouragement. Days later Julie said that Natalie was feeling a little better, though continued encouragement was still needed.

Some people know just what to say and do to encourage others who are going through difficult times. Their words give strength to those who are discouraged and comfort to those who are grieving. These people are sensitive to God’s voice. They are not self-centered or unaware of the struggles of those around them. They are the ones we immediately seek when we enter a crisis. They are welcome visitors when we are in distress, for their presence sustains us.

Scripture testifies of many whom God enabled to encourage others. When Moses was overwhelmed by his work, Jethro went to him and encouraged him. Jethro gave Moses wise counsel that eased his strain (Exod. 18:1–27). When Paul was imprisoned far from those who loved him, Epaphroditus risked his health and safety in order to go to Paul and minister to him (Phil. 2:25–30). Later, Paul urged Timothy to come and visit him, for Paul found strength and encouragement in Timothy (2 Tim. 4:9; Phil. 2:19–20). Paul asked Timothy to bring Mark also. Mark was the kind of friend Paul needed when he was enduring hardship (2 Tim. 4:11; Philem. 24). Paul also relied on Luke for encouragement. When everyone else was absent or preoccupied, Luke could be found with Paul (2 Tim. 4:11). Paul experienced trials throughout his life, but God sustained him by placing godly friends around him who provided support in practical and sacrificial ways.

God wants to develop you into the kind of friend who can strengthen others. Some people may be going through emotional stress brought about by problems with friends or family, or maybe some financial difficulties, or any sadness. The words you share and the things you do can bring comfort and encouragement to your family, your friends, your neighbors, and your coworkers. As Christians, let us be sensitive to people around us. We can be a light to a darkened world, or a salt that would add taste to a bitter life. As needed, let us strengthen believers and unbelievers. We can demonstrate the image of Christ and become what we are... Christians.

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