As Christ followers, we are called to support one another in various ways. Jesus is very clear in his instructions to Christians that we are to build one another up, bear each other’s burdens, and show kindness and compassion to others. The Bible gives us some great examples on how to do this through acts of service, accountability, and spiritual support.
How much more could we accomplish in our daily walk with Jesus if we learned to receive and give encouragement, like Jesus? Western culture has become uncomfortable with kind words from others. Accepting or giving a compliment has become something skeptical and untrustworthy. The Bible declares that encouragement is the fuel for Christian life. Without it we would be insufficient in love and faithfulness. Hebrews 3:13 tells us to “Exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.” We have to remember that building one another up, just isn’t words of affirmation, but a call to action. God is always working for the good of His people. Focusing on the positives of who God is and what he does, shows that even though life is hard, God is infinitely better than the negative. Is there a better way to know how much God loves us, than through the kind words of a friend?
. . . encouragement is the fuel for Christian life.
Sometimes, though, we want to muddle through life alone or think we can go about it on our own. Yet, Jesus commands us to gather together. We aren’t meant to do life without others helping us along the way. Our design, thanks to God, is to be with others. Proverbs 27:17, says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Being accountable to each other not only helps us to be better people, but it also helps our friends to be better. It teaches all of us responsibility and communication. We learn to trust others and be trusted when we learn to support one another. We also learn to spiritually grow and overcome our own temptation. James 5:16 states this, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” Not only is supporting one another important, it’s biblical!
1st Thessalonians 5:11 declares, “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” This isn’t just a statement for encouragement, it’s a reminder that we are to continue to seek community, especially when faced with difficulties or struggles. Spiritual support includes having conversations, praying together, and sharing burdens together. This type of support allows us to experience Jesus with authenticity and appreciation, because it helps us to realize that we are not alone. Although none of us are perfect, we do have a perfect Savior. Daily life with one another is only that much sweeter when we learn to rely on him and allow others into our lives for support.
Philippians 4:6 tells us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made know to God.” Keep showing up for others, keep being accountable with others, and keep supporting those who need it. You are loved!