On Wednesday night I felt so encouraged watching episode 1 of the Encounter video at church. Hearing stories of God encountering people in different ways, and how their lives changed for the better as a result. Then in our discussion group, the stories continued as we shared around our personal experiences. I remember feeling a little weary before I went along, but was full of energy and joy driving home. Thankful! 

We get so busy in life, and even feel quite isolated at times. Yet Wednesdays’ Open Connect night reminded me why a simple ninety minutes of supper, inspiring stories and connecting with others, can be so encouraging and motivating in our life and faith. 

The writer to the Hebrews explains it well in Hebrews 10:24-25

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. 

These verses clearly teach us that it requires meeting together to encourage others and spur them on in faith. People come on a Sunday, and gather for a variety of reasons during the week. In every case, whether attending or serving, it’s likely some feel discouraged or are running out of steam. Yet it’s not our absence that can make the difference, rather the habit of being present with others is how we impart love, encouragement and build people up. 

Let us wrote the Hebrews author. This week let us consider some of these practical examples that break a habit of absence and encourage and spur others on.

• Text someone to let them know you’re praying for them. Or send a bible verse. 

• Look for an opportunity to encourage someone for their love and service to others, and how you have been blessed by them. 

• Plan to come regularly to church to encourage others and share the love of God with everyone Jesus leads you to. People can encounter God through you.

• Consider inviting someone for a catchup to take a special interest in their life and to pray for them. Or give them a call. 

• If you are part of a ministry team or in a Connect group, encourage your leader and the group with coming regularly and using words that build up faith, hope and love.  

• Consider joining a team that helps us welcome and encourage all who come on Sundays, or ask how you can lighten the load of someone working hard.  

There could be many more examples, but let us consider how we can 

spur on and encourage others this week. God bless, Marty