FRIDAY November 15, 2024
The Ministry of Encouragement
For I want you to know what a great conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh, that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
Colossians 2:1-3
Paul had the ministry of encouragement. He built up the saints in Christ and prayed that their hearts would be encouraged. Notice how beautiful that is.
As Christians, we are never to tear people down; we are to build them up––encourage them. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NLT, we read: So encourage each other and build each other up.... Our pastors’ conferences are designed with just that intent. So many pastors are ready to throw in the towel, when what they need is some encouragement, fellowship and prayer. They need to be built up!
According to a number of religious research websites, pastors think about leaving the ministry due to some of these reasons: stress 56%, loneliness or isolation 43%, political divisions 38%, or administrative duties above their pastoral obligations. Others have struggled with lack of time to rest or conflict resolution. At least 53% of pastors are concerned about their family’s financial security, while 48% feel the demands of ministry are more than they can handle. Again, ministry is not easy. Hundreds of pastors leave the ministry every month; that is why they need encouragement.
Look around you. Do you see a hurting person, a discouraged face, or a downcast soul? May God help us to be good and faithful encouragers.
All around us are people whose lives are filled with trouble and sorrow. They need our compassion and our encouragement ... you can be a real strength to others who need a word of encouragement. Look to Christ and you will find that in doing so you are pointing others to Him as well.
~Billy Graham~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
