EncouragementSample

Flattery vs encouragement

I think we can all recognise flattery when someone is saying a lot of lovely things about us that are obviously insincere and generated from a place of insecurity or wanting to become a friend to get something they want. It’s a bit more difficult to recognise it in ourselves when we simply want to please people.

Here are a few thoughts. First, giving courage doesn’t always need words. Listening to and waiting with someone, rather than saying it will be ok, can be encouraging. Second, stopping to think – God is our greatest source of courage; how can I help my friend know that God is with them and what support can I offer? Third, ask – we often assume we already know what the most encouraging thing will be to say or do, but often it’s better to simply ask them what would encourage them. And fourth, stay connected – friends can be encouraged in a moment but there’s also real value in staying connected and building a community of ongoing encouragement.

I have a group of wonderful friends. We’ve met together regularly over many years to encourage one another and pray for each other. When we’re not together, we share life through a WhatsApp group. In this community of friendship, we’ve humbly given each other the courage to keep depending on God, and we’ve collectively shared the joy of knowing that God has never left us nor forsaken us.

Let me pray for us: ‘Lord, help us to be people who find our courage in you and who walk with others in humility to encourage their faith, Amen.’

Written by KATH HENRY