Encourage Others

The book of Samuel tells the story of how David was being sought out by Saul to be killed.  What’s interesting is that Jonathan, Saul’s son, was friends with David.  While David was feeling down about being hunted down, the bible says that Jonathan went to see David and encouraged him.  “Jonathan went to find David and encouraged him to stay strong in his faith in God” (1 Samuel 23:15-17). 

How often do we go out of our way to encourage someone we know is in need or perhaps depressed?  It’s easy to offer advice when someone is reaching out to us, but do we make the time to help those that we know need help even if they don’t ask?  Life gets busy and we become so self involved in our issues and routines that we lose focus of those hurting around us.  Let’s not be so closed off to the world.  The bible tells us to “encourage each other and build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).  Now, I’m not recommending that we poke into everyone’s private life, but if we are aware that someone is going through a difficult time, we should offer our support. 

Here are some simple ways to help:

1. Share encouraging words or bible verses

2. Offer to run an errand for them

3. Set up time to pray with them  and/or for them

4. Give what you have- If they need clothes and you have it, give it to them.  If they need food, make them a dinner or pick up some groceries for them.

We can’t solve everybody’s problems, but we can certainly do more to encourage others. Do your part to help people see Jesus through you!