Eternal Encouragement

1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

On career day at one of our local schools, I had the privilege of speaking to second and fourth graders about being an author. We talked about the process of what it takes to write a book; plus, how much perseverance is required. Every class had several students who enjoyed writing stories. I encouraged them to keep at it and set goals for themselves.

I’m grateful I had the opportunity to share something positive with them. They asked good questions and shared their own experiences. It’s funny how they inspired me, as I encouraged them.

Paul wrote to the Thessalonians and told them to encourage one another. As a believer, I want to cheer others in their walk with Jesus. We have folks we sit by at church on Sunday, and sometimes the encouragement is simply a smile, hug, or an “I’m praying for you.” We encourage our family and try to keep a positive attitude, but without the encouragement I receive from God, I couldn’t share it with others. He fills me with grace and hope, then my heart overflows with encouragement and strength. 

Without God pouring into me, I’d be discouraged by this world. Negativity and fear are loud. It saddens my heart to hear of folks who give up and don’t want to be part of life anymore. I want everyone to know God knows and loves them. He has a heart for the hurting and a hand in the healing. 

If you have an opportunity to encourage someone, do it today.