Encouragement

I have often said that I want to write words that encourage others. But what does that really mean? In the dictionary encouragement is defined as: "to give support, confidence, or hope to someone." I like the sound of that.

I recently heard an interview, where the speaker said, “The word 'courage,' is within the

word encouragement.” Well, that seems obvious. But as I pondered that thought over the next

few days, two thoughts became clear.

First, that it can take courage to speak up and encourage someone. Will I say the correct

words to bring hope to them? Will they receive it as encouragement? Sometimes encouragement can come in the form of an action. A gift to cheer someone or flowers.

Once I was debating about taking a plate of Valentine cupcakes to a neighbor. I did not know her well and was unsure how she would receive the gift. In my fickle moment, my daughter said, “Mom, who doesn’t like to be encouraged?” That made sense. I was focused on myself and what to say, instead of just blessing my neighbor.

As it turned out, her daughter was sick and missed school that day. She was overjoyed to receive the cupcakes, since she missed her class party. That is just one example where I needed the courage to step out and encourage another.

My second thought was that when I encourage someone, I’m speaking courage into them. I am helping them to see their purpose, gifts, and talents. My hope is that the words that share will touch their hearts. I want them to know they matter and are important to me, and to God. And maybe, just maybe, they will have a little more courage to face whatever lays ahead.

“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement, give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.”