Yes, my brother, please do me this favor for the Lord’s sake. Give me this encouragement in Christ.
Philemon 1:20 NLT
Encouragement comes in many forms. A standing ovation and generous applause encourage the performer. Sport teams are uplifted through the cheers of loyal fans. For the Christian, nothing compares to the encouragement we receive from one another through God’s love.
The world is full of competition; consequently, words of encouragement are few. Sadly, the Body of Christ often does the same, as jealousy blocks the flow of encouragement toward our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Every believer possesses unique abilities. But we often covet another’s God-given gift. We wish we could sing or recite scriptures or teach like others. However, God equips every believer with different talents.
Have you found yours? Often the greatest gifts are ones behind the scenes. The intercessors who pray daily for the pastors and leaders are greatly gifted with the power of the Holy Spirit to target and pray for whomever God puts on their hearts. Some possess the gift of giving—not just financially, but of themselves. Others possess God’s wisdom and as a result, they can share a word that someone desperately needs. Where would we be without these loving, caring people?
Imprisoned, Paul wrote to Philemon asking him for a favor, indicating it would be of great encouragement to him. Similarly, God encourages us to encourage, too.
Lord, help me encourage others just as You encourage me. Amen.
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Today’s reading was adapted from Daily Wisdom for Women: 2014 Devotional Collection with permission from Barbour Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reading was written by Tina Krause.