Jesus encouraged people, and he told those who are strong in faith to make a point of encouraging others in their faith. You should encourage the people around you, too. For one thing, we all need confidence. When you know that someone believes in you, it brings out your best. Jesus did this with the Apostle Peter. "Petros," Peter's name, meant pebble. But Jesus said, "Pebble, you're going to be a rock. I'm giving you a new name." When Jesus said that to Peter, the apostle was anything but a rock. He was Mr. Impulsive, Mr. Foot-in-Mouth. But Jesus didn't tell him what he WAS - He told him what he could BE. He gave him confidence to live up to his potential. But when you give encouragement, it needs to be genuine. So, give from the heart and with sincerity. Encouragement also needs to be regular - don't be stingy with your encouragement. And encouragement needs to be specific. Instead of saying, "I enjoyed the meal," say, "I can tell you put a lot of effort into this meal.”
“Those of us who are strong and able in the faith need to step in and lend a hand to those who falter, and not just do what is most convenient for us. Strength is for service, not status. Each one of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, “How can I help?””
Romans 15:1-2 MSG
Be a change agent!
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