Why Is Encouragement So Important to God?

God is aware of how difficult our lives can be. Jesus lived on earth and experienced what it’s like to be human. Because of this, He sees encouragement as critical for each of us—to receive as well as give to others.

1. Being an encourager is an essential part of God’s nature. He is the “God of encouragement.”

Romans 15:5 (RSV) says, “May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus.”

We are commanded to imitate Him. Ephesians 5:1–2 (ESV) says, “Be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Part of being like Him includes being men and women of encouragement.

2. We need encouragement not only from God but from each other. God created us this way. It’s not a weakness to need encouragement! God wants His children to be encouraged, not just by Him, but by one another.
3. Encouragement is one of the most powerful ministries we can have. It is a major part of spiritual warfare. As you’ll see, it can keep someone from being hardened by sin:

Hebrews 3:13 (NIV) says, “Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘Today,’ so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.”

Consider:

1. Have you ever thought that encouraging someone else might keep them from being hardened by sin?
2. How might encouragement keep someone from being hardened by sin’s deceitfulness?

This is one area of ministry that takes so little effort for so much benefit. Ask yourself, “If this is so important, why don’t I do it more?”

Excerpted from God’s Design for Community. Proven People Skills.

Blessings on you as you learn how to encourage others in new ways,

Gaylyn Williams, author of The Surprising Joy of Embracing God’s Promises, 365 Reminders of His Faithfulness.

© 2016 Relationship Resources, Inc.