The Ministry of Encouragement

Author John Maxwell says, “Encouragement is oxygen for the soul. It takes very little effort to give it, but the return in others is huge.”

by Cecil Sanders on May 03, 2022

As Mother’s Day approaches this coming Sunday, I remember my own mother having the ministry of encouragement in my life. Like most mothers mine has always been ‘for’ me. Her words of encouragement have been a source of comfort, inspiration and motivation.

Author John Maxwell says, “Encouragement is oxygen for the soul. It takes very little effort to give it, but the return in others is huge.” I certainly believe that word, don’t you? How many times has someone brought much needed encouragement to you at just the right time? God knew and supplied your need just when you needed it. Even a brief encouraging word brings about a great result in your soul.

The Holy Spirit through the Apostle Paul commands all of us to conduct the ministry of encouragement. He writes, “Encourage one another, and build up one another, just as you also are doing” (1 Thess. 5:11). The Thessalonian Christians were already in the habit of encouraging one another and Paul was encouraging their encouraging! The Thessalonian Church was known for being vibrant and healthy. It’s reasonable to conclude that this climate of encouragement within the Thessalonian Church contributed to its health.

Let me follow Paul in encouraging us all in the ministry of encouragement! Let every FBChristian take responsibility for ‘building up’ our church family. Take the time to observe. Notice people who serve and thank them – especially those behind the scenes. See and listen to someone who’s discouraged. Take note of a brother or sister who is alone and needs a friend. Write, call or text another to rejoice in their victory of celebration. We become healthier as a church when we encourage one another.

Cecil Sanders

Tags: mother's day, encouragement, thessalonians

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