“When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us.” ~ Alexander Graham Bell
Godly encouragement is fuel for the soul. It’s a gift that brings hope that helps us see new possibilities and gain energy to keep going when things are tough. Positive words of encouragement from godly leaders lift us up, increase our faith and help us believe. We need to be intentional about surrounding ourselves with godly men and women who make it their practice to encourage us. We become better leaders because of their positive attitude and wise perspective on life.
Hope that is based on godly wisdom sustains us through challenging and difficult times. Wisdom and hope are necessary for success and fulfillment in life. Not only do we need people to bring us wisdom and hope through godly encouragement, we need to do that for others as well. As you read the following passage, think about how you might provide godly encouragement in someone else’s life today through words of wisdom and hope:
Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. (Colossians 3:16-17 NASB)
Did you notice how being a godly encourager begins? You must be filled with God’s encouragement in your own life first before you can effectively let godly encouragement overflow to others. You can’t give others what you do not have yourself. “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you…” so rich and in abundance that it overflows into the lives of others.
Wise encouragement is the best kind of encouragement. It’s not about just saying encouraging words; it’s about finding wise encouragement through God’ Word. False hope is based on foolishness. True hope is established on the foundation of God’s truth. Speak God’s truth in love and gentleness. The Holy Spirit will go to work in hearts of those you encourage. When done well, even admonishing or correcting someone can encourage them.
Fill yourself before you try to pour into the lives of others. Find encouragement in God’s Word for yourself and then share the hope of those words with others. And remember, “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” People in your realm of influence are watching and listening. Your words and actions carry weight and influence the attitudes of others and their outlook on life.
Take time to thank those people who lift you when you are down and speak words of encouragement into your life and leadership. Let their example inspire you today and be intentional about encouraging others the way they’ve encouraged you.