Tag: encouragement

Learning to Live Well Together: 5 Ways We Can Build Each Other Up

On By barrysnotesLeave a comment

In case you haven’t noticed, there is a universal temptation for human beings to tear one another down rather than to build one another up. It is based on the false notion that to diminish someone else’s character or credibility elevates my own. This is not a new thing. It goes back centuries.

As the apostle Paul closes his second letter to the Corinthians, he continues a theme prevalent in his previous correspondence by urging them to “encourage one another and build each other up” (I Thessalonians 5:11). Eugene Peterson captures Paul’s pastoral intent with refreshing clarity: “Put things in order, keep your spirits up, think in harmony, be agreeable… and the God of love and peace will be with you” (II Corinthians 13:11-14).These are not lofty theological abstractions. They are practical, everyday practices for communities that want to live well together.

Churches then, and now, are made up of imperfect people learning how to follow Christ side by side. Paul’s words offer spiritual guidance that is relevant to churches, communities, businesses, and even nations. Here are five practices drawn from this passage that help us to build each other up:

  • Put things in order.

Spiritual health begins with honest self-examination. Paul’s call to “put things in order” invites us to take responsibility for our lives and relationships. This is not about perfection, but continually re-tuning or recalibrating our faith, values, and priorities. It’s about asking what needs attention, repair, or repentance.

The early Christian communities practiced regular confession, not to shame believers, but to restore fellowship. A wise teacher observed, “The church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints.” Healthy communities are willing to name what is broken so healing can begin.

Whether it’s addressing unresolved conflict, clarifying expectations, or setting healthier boundaries, aligning our lives with Jesus’ teachings creates space for growth, maturity, and wise living.

  • Keep your spirits up.

One translation says, “Be of good cheer.”  Paul knows discouragement can drain a community’s life. “Keep your spirits up” is not a denial of difficulty or naivete about the unfairness of life. Keeping a positive spirit involves an intentional choice to nurture hope, especially in the most difficult seasons of life.

During World War II, Londoners famously painted signs in bomb shelters reading, “Keep Calm and Carry On.” The message did not minimize danger, but it did remind people how to endure it. Encouragement works the same way in life. It keeps us steady when circumstances are hard.

As theologian Henri Nouwen wrote, “Encouragement is the ability to see hope in the other person.” A timely word of affirmation, a handwritten note, or a prayer offered at the right moment can sustain a weary soul and strengthen the whole community.

  • Think in harmony.

Paul’s counsel to “think in harmony” does not require uniform opinions. Harmony is not sameness. Harmony is shared commitment. Like voices in a choir, different parts blend together without losing their distinctiveness.

The early church debated vigorously about Gentiles, food laws, and leadership, but they learned to stay at the table together. Unity was preserved not by avoiding disagreement, but by practicing love within it.

Harmony grows when we listen more than we speak, when we seek understanding before we register our perspective, and when we remember that relationships matter more than winning arguments.

  • Be agreeable and live in peace.

“Be agreeable” may sound countercultural in an age that rewards outrage. Being agreeable does not mean we agree on everything. It means that we start with the things we agree on, and we work toward solutions on the things we don’t agree on.

Paul reminds us that peacemaking is a spiritual discipline. Abraham Lincoln once said, “I don’t like that man. I must get to know him better.” That posture reflects spiritual maturity. And it is only possible when we choose curiosity over contempt, and we opt for acquaintance rather than accusation.

Peace does not mean avoiding hard conversations. It means entering them with humility and grace. Ask not only, “Am I right?” but also, “Am I loving?” Peace flourishes when people feel heard, respected, and valued.

  • Practice kindness.

Paul encourages believers to greet one another warmly, which serves as a reminder that faith is embodied. Small gestures carry spiritual weight.

Simple acts of hospitality have a unique way of building others up. When a greeter remembers a name, when we share a meal at a common table, or when we do a quiet check-in with another person during a turbulent week, these actions preach sermons no words can replace.

As Maya Angelou wisely observed, “People will never forget how you made them feel.” Kindness is not peripheral to faith. It’s no wonder that Jesus urged his followers to “be kind,” for kindness it is one of faith’s most powerful expressions.

Paul ends with a benediction that frames daily life: “The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, and the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” Grace grounds us, love galvanizes us, and the Spirit guides us.

We need a revival of “living well together.” It’s not complicated. And it’s much better for our spiritual health, physical health, and mental health than treating other children of God as our evil adversaries. When communities practice alignment, encouragement, harmony, peace, and kindness, they communicate the love and grace God intends for every person.

And in a fractured world, that witness matters more than ever.

(Barry Howard is a retired pastor who currently serves as a leadership coach and consultant with the Center for Healthy Churches. He and his wife live on Cove Lake in northeast Alabama.)

(This column is based on a sermon I preached at the First Baptist Church of Corbin, Kentucky, in February 2003.)

Building Up the Body: 10 Ways to Encourage One Another

On By barrysnotesLeave a comment

People are hungry for encouragement. Life can be extremely discouraging at times.

During this season of wars and rumors of wars, of turbulent and toxic discourse, it’s not the TikTokers or the Tweeters, not the pop culture icons or the politicians, but the encouragers who are the most significant influencers.

William Arthur Ward “Flatter me, and I may not believe you. Criticize me, and I may not like you. Ignore me, and I may not forgive you. Encourage me, and I will not forget you.”

As followers of Jesus, we are called to build each other up and encourage one another daily (I Thessalonians 5:11). In a world filled with challenges, a word of encouragement can brighten someone’s day, restore their hope, or strengthen their faith. Here are 10 practical ways you can encourage those around you:

  1. Pray for each other. One of the most powerful ways to encourage is to pray. Let someone know you’re praying for them and lift them up regularly before God.

  2. Offer a listening ear. Sometimes the best way to encourage someone is simply to listen without judgment or interruption. Let them feel heard and valued.

  3. Speak words of affirmation.  A kind word can go a long way. Affirm someone’s strengths, character, or faithfulness. Proverbs 16:24 reminds us, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”

  4. Send an encouraging note. Whether it’s a handwritten card, a text message, or an email, a small note of encouragement can brighten someone’s day and remind them that they are loved and appreciated.

  5. Share an inspiring verse of scripture. The Bible is filled with promises and encouragement. Share a meaningful verse that can uplift someone during a difficult time.

  6. Celebrate the accomplishments of others. Acknowledge the milestones and victories in someone’s life, no matter how small. Celebrating with others brings joy and motivation.

  7. Be present. Sometimes just showing up when someone is going through a tough time is the most encouraging thing you can do. Your presence can speak volumes when words aren’t enough.

  8. Be available to provide assistance. Practical support in the form of running errands, providing meals, or lending a hand can encourage someone who is overwhelmed or struggling.

  9. Be patient and forgiving. Encouragement often comes through offering grace and understanding. Be patient with others, knowing we all go through seasons where we need extra kindness.

  10. Speak the truth in love. Encourage others by speaking truthfully but with compassion. Sometimes the most loving thing you can do is help someone see a situation with clarity, rooted in love and grace.

Never underestimate the power and importance of encouragement. George M. Adams writes, “Encouragement is the oxygen of the soul.”

In a world where criticism, negativity, and hopelessness abound, encouragement can be a breath of fresh air. When we offer a word or gesture of encouragement, we may just resuscitate the spirit of one who is on the verge of despair.

Build Each Other Up: 10 Benefits of Encouragement

On By barrysnotesLeave a comment

In our challenging and fast-paced world a simple word of encouragement can be a powerful force Encouragement not only lifts spirits but also fosters an environment where individuals can thrive. I Thessalonians 5:11 urges us, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

Your simple word of encouragement can change the course of someone’s day, and in some cases, even impact the direction of their lives. Here are ten significant benefits of encouragement:

  1. Strengthens relationships. Offering encouragement can strengthen bonds between friends, family members, and colleagues. It shows that we care and are invested in the other person’s success and well-being, fostering deeper and more meaningful connections.

  2. Boosts confidence. Encouragement helps build self-esteem and confidence. When someone believes in us, it reinforces our belief in ourselves. This can lead to greater self-assurance and a willingness to take on new challenges.

  3. Enhances effectiveness. Positive reinforcement is a well-known motivator. Encouragement can significantly improve performance in both personal and professional settings. Whether it’s a pat on the back for a job well done or a pep talk before a big presentation, knowing someone is in our corner can drive us to excel.

  4. Inspires positive thinking. Encouragement cultivates a positive mindset. It shifts our focus from problems to possibilities, helping us approach situations with optimism and a can-do attitude.

  5. Nurtures resilience. Life is full of setbacks and failures. Encouragement helps build resilience, allowing us to bounce back from disappointments. It reminds us that failure is not the end, but a steppingstone to success.

  6. Promotes personal growth. Encouragement often pushes us out of our comfort zones, prompting personal growth and development. It inspires us to set higher goals, pursue new opportunities, and strive for continuous improvement.

  7. Improves mental health. Regular encouragement can have a significant impact on mental health. It reduces feelings of anxiety and depression, providing a sense of support and belonging. Knowing that someone believes in us can alleviate stress and promote emotional well-being.

  8. Fosters teamwork. In a team setting, encouragement boosts morale and builds a collaborative spirit. It helps team members feel valued and appreciated, leading to better cooperation and a more harmonious work environment.

  9. Fuels creativity. Encouragement stimulates creativity by providing a safe space for ideas to flourish. When we feel supported, we’re more likely to think outside the box and take creative risks without fear of judgment.

  10. Creates a ripple effect. Encouragement is contagious. When we receive encouragement, we’re more likely to pass it on to others. This creates a ripple effect, spreading positivity and inspiration throughout our communities.

Encouragement is a tangible expression of Christ’s love. Jesus consistently offered words of comfort, hope, and affirmation to his followers. As Jesus’ disciples, we are called to mirror that same love to others. In John 13:34-35, Jesus commands us, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Through encouragement, we demonstrate the love of Christ and bear witness to his grace and compassion.

Encouragement is one important way to bring out the best in others. And when encouragment offered, it tends to build up the recipient and the benefactor.

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor at the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches. You can follow him on Twitter at @BarrysNotes.)