Knife analogy- Built To Last

A. Why Should Encouragement be a Priority?

1. God is encouraging
Romans 15:5 (NIV)
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus,

2. It is expected of us
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NLT)
So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.

3. God has gifted us that way
Romans 12:8 (NIV) …if it is encouraging, let him encourage

B. What Does Encouragement Accomplish?

1. Encouragement Restores Strength
1 Thessalonians 3:2 (NLT)
And we sent Timothy to visit you. He is our co-worker for God and our brother in proclaiming the Good News of Christ. We sent him to strengthen you, to encourage you in your faith,

2. Encouragement Repairs Wrong Thinking
Hebrews 3:13 (NIV)
But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.
Life Rules that interfere: 1. None of My Business 2. Talk about people, not to them

3. Encouragement Reinforces Right Choices
Hebrews 10:24 (CEV)
We should keep on encouraging each other to be thoughtful and to do helpful things.

4. Encouragement Relieves Emotional Distress
Job 16:5 (NIV)
But my mouth would encourage you; comfort from my lips would bring you relief.
Romans 15:4 (CEV)
And the Scriptures were written to teach and encourage us by giving us hope.

EJ Video

C. How Can I Become a Better Encourager?

1. Ask for Opportunities
Matthew 7:7 (NIV)
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.

2. Speak Truthfully
Proverbs 26:28 (MSG)
Liars hate their victims; flatterers sabotage trust.

3. Act Promptly

4. Repeat Regularly
2 Thessalonians 3:13 (CEV)

Dear friends, you must never become tired of doing right.

SONG: You Raise Me Up

Encouragement Cards