I gave my first public speech outside of a classroom when I was a senior in High school. I spoke to the whole sophomore class (approx. 400 students) as the Editor-in-Chief of the school newspaper. I was set up to encourage participation in extracurricular activities, like the school newspaper. It was going well until it wasn’t. I became self-conscious two-thirds of the way through, and I had the strange sensation of having words come out of my mouth that I seemingly had no control over. I did not know what I was saying or where these comments were leading so I stopped in mid-sentence and sat down. I was horrified and sank down in my seat. As the meeting continued, I saw the vice principal get up from his seat on the other side of the auditorium, kneel where I was seated, tap me on the knee, and tell me I was a good speaker and not to forget it. This comment and the gentleness with which it was delivered saved me from a flood of condemning thoughts. Looking back, I see how God used that encouraging word to lift me up when I needed it most. In that moment, the kindness shown to me was more than just helpful; it was a reminder of how God often uses others to deliver His encouragement, meeting us right where we are.
Timely words have the power to change and transform. How much more powerful is it when we are led by the spirit of God to encourage a brother or sister in Christ? We are to be for one another, and this is repeated often in the scriptures:
Show kindness and mercy to one another (Zechariah 8:16)
Instruct one another (Romans 15:14)
Comfort one another (2 Corinthians 13:11)
Bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2)
Address one another in Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs (Ephesians 5:19)
Encourage one another and build one another up (1Thessalonians 5:11)
Confess your sins to one another (James 5:16)
Speaking the truth in love [to build up one another] (Ephesians 4:15-16)
The goal of speaking the truth in love is for people to grow in maturity in Christ and be protected from false teaching. This means connecting with people, bravely addressing sin, and living out truth—not just speaking truth without love or love without truth. Truth and love must go together and be seen in our conversations. Growth comes from honest communication and real care. The best way to do this is to first ask questions to understand where people are. The skill of listening is not easy and requires patience and attentiveness. As you pray before and during your interaction, you will know what to say. It is also helpful to pray afterward that God can use your words of encouragement or advice.
To put encouragement into action, consider sending a note or message to someone who needs a lift, making a phone call to check in on a friend, sharing a Bible verse that has helped you, or simply letting someone know you are praying for them. Even small gestures, like a kind compliment or offering to help with a need, can make a big difference. The whole body of Christ is called to participate.
Let’s encourage one another this week by finding the words and opportunities God would give us to build each other up.
