Max Lucado tells the story of a grandmother encouraging him during a Half Ironman triathlon. After a 1.2-mile swim and a 56-mile bike ride, he still had a 13.1-mile run ahead of him. Along the route, he found himself beside a man who “had more complaints than a taxpayer at the IRS.” Realizing the man’s negativity would affect him, Lucado moved on.
Soon he caught up with a 66-year-old grandmother. She was an encourager.
“You’ll finish this,” she said. “It’s hot, but at least it’s not raining. One step at a time… don’t forget to hydrate… stay in there.”
Lucado wrote that he ran beside her until his heart was lifted and his legs were aching. Eventually he had to slow down.
“No problem,” she said, waving as she kept running.
I want to be like that grandmother.
“Encourage each other every day while you have the opportunity.” (Hebrews 3:13, GW)
To encourage means to inspire confidence, strengthen another person, and motivate them toward good.
Have you ever noticed how certain people walk into a room and others immediately feel lighter? They have a way of building others up without shallow flattery. They recognize the good in people. They notice potential, effort, faithfulness, and contributions that others overlook.
Those are the kinds of people I enjoy being around.
Let’s each commit ourselves to becoming encouragers. Ask God to help you become a “builder-upper.” Ask Him to help you notice the people around you and become more aware of their burdens, fears, and struggles. Compassion grows when we begin paying attention to others.
If you want to encourage people:
look into their eyes,
listen carefully,
and think before you speak.
You may not be able to solve their problems or remove their pain, but you can love them. You can strengthen them. You can remind them of the hope we have because of what God has done for us in Christ.
“The mouth of a righteous person is a fountain of life…” (Proverbs 10:11, GW)
God will help you speak words that are wise, pure, and life-giving.
You and I cannot do for others what God calls them to do for themselves. But we can walk beside them with encouragement, prayer, kindness, and hope.
Just a few moments ago, a couple stopped by our home. We laughed and talked together for a while. Before they left, they embraced Becky and me. That hug meant so much. I felt strengthened and encouraged simply because they took the time to love us well.
We can all do what they did.
Growthwork
- Look up to God daily in prayer.
- Look around at the people in your life.
- Listen well.
- Write an old-fashioned note of encouragement that recognizes the good in someone.
- Take time to visit them.
Peace!