THE ENCOURAGING COMMUNITY

The Encouraging Community 

Jennifer Woodley

‘And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.’ 1 Thessalonians 5:14 (NIV).

This is the language of the faith community: admonish, encourage, help and be patient. It’s a universal language that can revolutionize our churches, communities, cities and nations. We all grow weary, become despondent and are prone to lose focus. How many of us have had days where we want to give up?

In Exodus 17 the Israelites were in battle against the Amalekites. Moses, along with Aaron and Hur, watched from a nearby hill. While Moses held his arms up high supported by his comrades, the Israelites prevailed. But each time, in exhaustion, his arms came down, the Amalekites had the advantage.

Like Moses, we need the encouragement and assistance of others. Moses did not have it altogether and neither do we. Our effectiveness is dependent upon others. To truly grow we must accept the support of another who will encourage us. Someone who is convinced that we are great and can do great things. Someone who applauds us when we succeed and pulls us up when we fail. Who’s holding up your arms just now?

There is not one single believer who cannot encourage another. God has wired us to give ourselves away and filled us with something to give. So let’s be intentional in our encouragement. Before this day is over ask another how they are going, in what ways they need to be encouraged and what is holding them back from living a fuller life, closer to God.

‘Father help me to be an encourager. Show me how I can build up another in love today. Amen.’

Jennifer is a freelance writer who enjoys encouraging others through writing and mentoring. Contact