I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' " Acts 20:35

Last time we considered why it is more blessed to encourage others than to receive encouragement from others. This time, let’s consider some very simple ways to encourage the body of Christ.

Show up. Most don’t realize it, but every time you show up to church, the fact that you (and others) are there is an encouragement to the rest of the body. Think of times when you may have come to church and the sanctuary was rather empty. Did that encourage you? Of course not. But when the place is full and buzzing with others who have come to worship, we are encouraged. Even if you did nothing more than coming to church by being there, you encouraged the rest of us.

Arrive on time. I pray this doesn’t sound petty, but when the service begins and only a fraction of the church family is there, it isn’t exactly encouraging (especially to those who are leading the service). There is a blessing attached to showing up on time and thereby encouraging others.

Smile. Some of us have faces that aren’t naturally very smiley. Let us encourage others by being intentional about smiling at each other. It is such a small thing, but it can make such a difference to someone who needs encouragement!

Use your words. We hear parents utter these words to whiny, unhappy children. In addition to smiling, can let us learn to speak encouraging words when we speak to one another. And when asked “How are you doing?” instead of instantly bemoaning your troubles, begin by praising God for sustaining you. (It is certainly not wrong to share our burdens and to pray for each other, but think and speak encouragement first if you can!) Remember Paul’s words in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore comfort each other and edify one another…”

We’ll consider a few more next time…