We can uplift and affirm one another in a variety of ways. Circle the two ways you most like to encourage others: 1. Speaking. Proverbs 16:24 says, "Pleasant words are … sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." The number of ways we can encourage one another through our speech is almost limitless. One way is to recognize verbally the positive qualities in others' lives. 2. Writing. The New Testament epistles are proof of the power of written communication. Sometimes a short note to someone who's discouraged can mean so much. Think creatively. For example, I sometimes leave "I love you" notes in my husband's lunch bag. 3. Being present. "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted," says Psalm 34:18. Sometimes God asks us simply to be with others in person on his behalf. We don't have to speak much; our presence itself can be a deeply encouraging gift. 4. Touching. Jesus often touched people. Scientists are just starting to document the positive effects of touch, which God has known about all along. From a light touch on the forearm to a tight hug, these gestures encourage others wordlessly. 5. Praying. "You help us by your prayers," Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 1:11. Everyone can have this ministry. My friend Kenneth was immobilized by a stroke as a young adult and can move nothing but his eyes. Yet he's known as someone who prays for others. 6. Showing hospitality. "Practice hospitality," says Romans 12:13. The Greek word for hospitality denotes "brotherly love of strangers." Practicing biblical hospitality means reaching out to the "emotional strangers" who need to experience the heartfelt compassion that comes with the extra plate on the table. 7. Giving. "A generous man will himself be blessed," says Proverbs 22:9. God wants his people to share their lives with others—their time, their money, their possessions. Any of these can be used creatively to encourage others. 8. Helping. Common jobs and chores—housework, yard work, mending, shoveling snow, baby-sitting—become holy in the ministry of encouragement. "Whatever you do," says Colossians 3:23, "work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." From Discipleship Journal, Issue 113, 1999; used by permission. To Discuss
 
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