Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Years ago during the world lightweight boxing championship match, a Scotsman was fighting against a man from the United States who was six years younger. The Scot was the reigning champion, and the bout was being fought before a crowd of 20,000 in Glasgow, Scotland.
Soon after the match began, it was clear that the fight would be a close one. So chanting began to arise from the Scottish crowd. It was singing. It became louder and louder, with hundreds of male voices singing a strange Scottish melody!
These men were singing to encourage their champion. As he fought for his title, but even more for the respect of the Scottish people, they wanted him to know they were behind him.
As a member of the body of Christ, it’s your job to encourage one another as well in the great battle of faith. When you see some who are struggling in obedience to Christ’s call on their lives, and others who are on the front lines expanding the Kingdom of God in places all over the world, your role is to be an encourager and cheer them on. Then, when it’s your turn to step into the ring, they’ll encourage you too.
Never underestimate the power of an encouraging word. Studies have proven that words of encouragement help those who are struggling. So find someone today who needs an encouraging word and help them fight their battle of faith by encouraging them!
Prayer Challenge
Pray that God would show you someone who you can help fight the battle of faith today with an encouraging word or note.
Questions for thought
Think of a time when an encouraging word from someone helped you make it through a challenge. What did they say or do that made such a difference for you?
What’s something you can do to lend strength to someone who’s experiencing a challenge right now?