“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV)
The Domino Effect of Encouragement
Have you ever seen a squirrel try to cross a busy road? I have, and let me tell you—it’s as stressful for the squirrel as it is for the spectators. One day, while driving home, I saw a small squirrel hesitating at the side of the road, eyeing the oncoming cars like a contestant in a high-stakes game show. Behind it stood an older, larger squirrel, barking furiously as if to say, “You’ve got this, kid!” It was a perfect example of how even squirrels seem to encourage one another when the stakes are high. With one determined squeak, the little squirrel dashed across—reaching the other side safely.
Oddly enough, I felt encouraged too. That older squirrel was onto something. Sometimes, all we need is someone in our corner, cheering us on when life’s traffic feels overwhelming.
Why Encouragement Matters
Encouragement isn’t just about feel-good moments; it’s about building resilience. Proverbs 12:25 reminds us, “Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” A simple word of encouragement can lift burdens we don’t even realize others are carrying.
When we encourage one another, we participate in something profound. We reflect God’s love in action, showing that no one has to navigate life’s challenges alone.
Small Gestures, Big Impact
You don’t need grand speeches or elaborate plans to encourage one another. It could be as simple as:
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Sending a text that says, “You’re doing great. Keep going!”
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Complimenting a co-worker’s effort on a project.
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Leaving a note for a family member that says, “You’re loved more than you know.”
Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together…but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
Now, I don’t agree with a lot of what Paul says, but he does give some good advice sometimes.
Turning the Tables
Here’s the funny thing about encouragement—it often comes back to you. Much like that older squirrel probably felt a sense of pride watching the little squirrel succeed, we, too, are uplifted when we lift others. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Just as iron improves iron through contact, we encourage one another by offering support, wisdom, and kindness, helping each other grow stronger in faith and character.
Be Someone’s Cheerleader
Life’s roads can be daunting, and sometimes we all feel like that nervous little squirrel. But with a few kind words and intentional support, we can help each other make it to the other side safely.
So today, go out and encourage one another. You never know whose life you might help change—or whose heart you might help lighten—with just a few simple words.
And if you see a squirrel at the side of the road? Maybe give it a little cheer of encouragement too.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into the art of lifting others up, How To Be An Encourager by Jack G. Elder is a great resource. This insightful book offers practical tips and inspiring stories to help you become more intentional in your efforts to encourage one another. It’s a simple yet powerful guide for anyone wanting to make a positive impact in the lives of others. You can find it on Amazon here.
If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out my other posts on healthy living and delicious recipes. They’re filled with practical tips and inspiration to help you live your best life—mind, body, and soul!
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