Written by: Gillian Fraser
Article source: JOY! Magazine

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

The world around us can be incredibly harsh and unkind. People are quick to criticise, quick to compare, and often slow to speak life. In that kind of environment, one of the greatest ministries we can offer as believers is the simple, powerful gift of encouragement. A few years ago, I challenged myself to start saying the encouraging things I was thinking. If a colleague walked in wearing a nice outfit (a silly example, I know), I’d make a point of telling them they looked great. It sounds so simple, but it made me realise how often we think kind things about others and just don’t say them. I was surprised by how many uplifting thoughts I kept to myself. Once I started sharing them, I saw how easy it actually is to encourage someone – genuinely and sincerely.

Encouragement is a calling
Encouragement isn’t just a “nice-to-have” personality trait – it’s a spiritual gift, and a command. We are called to be children of the light, and part of that light is speaking words that build, not break. Encouragement doesn’t mean flattery. It means sincerely highlighting the good you see in others, and reminding them of their worth and identity in Christ. You may not think of yourself as a leader, a teacher, or a preacher. But you can be an encourager. That alone can change lives.

Pour out what God has given you
The Bible reminds us that every good and perfect gift comes from above (Jam 1:17), and that our cup overflows (Psa 23:5). That overflow isn’t meant to stay in the cup – it’s meant to pour out. We are filled so that we can fill others. In a world starving for genuine connection, a few honest, loving words can go a long way. Telling someone, “I see how hard you’re trying”, or “You have a gift for making people feel welcome”, may seem small, but it might be the lifeline they needed that day. Don’t underestimate how God can use your words.

Speak the Word over people
We often compare ourselves to others – to their success, their appearance, their achievements. But our true standard is not the person next to us – it’s God’s Word. And His Word says we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psa 139:14), chosen (1 Pet 2:9), called (Rom 8:30), and equipped with spiritual gifts (1 Cor 12:7). Start speaking these truths over people. Tell them they’re not forgotten. Remind them of who they are in Christ. Declare the fruits of the Spirit over their lives. It doesn’t have to be a sermon – it just has to be sincere.

Encouragement starts at home
You don’t have to go far to encourage someone. Start with your family. Your children, spouse, parents, siblings – they need encouragement too. Then extend it to your community, your workplace, your church. Be the person who notices, who uplifts, who cheers others on. This is the kind of ministry the world desperately needs – not loud, flashy, or polished – but real, honest, heart-level encouragement. Let’s be known for it.

This article is featured in the August issue of JOY! Magazine. Read a digital version of this magazine here: joygifts.co.za

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Date published: 20/08/2025
GILLIAN FRASER – production manager of JOY! Magazine. Email gillian@joymag.co.za
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only.

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