Words of affirmation used to compete for the top spot among my love languages. Working in church ministry for several years, I’ve had the privilege of watching believers go above and beyond in practicing it. Social media posts with captions that could make you weep, cards and treats, and endearing announcements from the stage or pulpit—you name it, I’ve seen it. It didn’t take long for my internal challenger to kick in, wondering, “Do they really mean that?” It wasn’t that the encouragement came from disingenuous people, but often the encouragement I witnessed was rooted in subjectivity, dependent on ever-changing opinions. The encouragement we extend is usually intended to boost someone’s confidence or answer the question, “What can I do to make this person feel better?”
Today, we read two passages that, despite different church contexts and authors, arrive at the same place—the call to encourage (Hebrews 10:25; 1 Thessalonians 5:11). The call to encourage is commanded in both, but it’s different from the call I’ve often witnessed and practiced.
Hebrews 10:1–25 explores Christ’s fulfillment of Old Testament sacrifices and priests, along with exhortations for believers in light of Christ’s past and present work. As our priest, Jesus allows us to dwell in the presence of God with boldness and confidence. Out of this new position, Paul’s exhortation to encourage emerges. The command in Hebrews extends beyond a person—it’s not meant to be dependent on our impression of someone, but in all Christ has done for them.
Whereas Hebrews 10 focuses on Christ’s past and present work, in Thessalonians Paul focuses on Christ’s future return. In a book clarifying questions about the reality and timing of Christ’s return, the call Paul emphasized wasn’t to sit around trying to determine when Christ might return, but to encourage one another in kingdom work until Christ returns.
I’m thankful that the call to extend encouragement isn’t rooted in a surface level boost of confidence—instead it is rooted in the rich theology of Christ’s atoning sacrifice and His coming return. This is a call rooted in the Lord, rather than the recipients of our encouragement.
Don’t get me wrong, encouragement that’s all about me feels great in the moment, but it doesn’t last. It doesn’t point me to Christ or call me to obedience.
Let’s be women who encourage beyond the surface, rooting our encouragement in the gospel. Consider taking your inspiration from Hebrews, reminding a doubting brother or sister in Christ of the impact of the gospel you have seen evident in their lives. Or, take your encouragement from Thessalonians, encouraging an exhausted believer in their obedience to the gospel you have witnessed. Today, how will you root your words of encouragement in Christ’s work and His calling for our obedience?
Happy thanksgiving! I’m so thankful for this group. I read your comments every day but rarely post. May you glorify God today in all that you do. ❤️
What a great lesson for Thanksgiving Day! May I look beyond the surface to find words of encouragement that point back to Jesus & all He has done & continues to do in our lives. I love the lesson taught by your Jenna, Churchmouse.
*pouring not luring.
I am a Canadian from the Fraser Valley in a town with major flooding. I hear more rain as I type. While my home is not directly affected by the floodwaters I know many whose are. I am thankful in this moment for the luring out of love and support in my community—a unifying coming together at a time such as this. I too am extremely thankful for those who pour into SRT. I am blessed by this devotional daily and am so grateful for the nourishment I receive from it! Happy Thanksgiving to all of you lovelies from America!
“Our world may seem like it’s falling out of control but it’s actually falling into place. God’s redemptive and restorative story goes on. We who believe stand confidently on His promises. His Word gives us the encouragement we need to persevere.’ Thank you for these words today, Churchmouse!! Just what I needed to hear.
I am a Canadian from the Fraser Valley in a town with major flooding. I hear more rain as I type. While my home is not directly affected by the floodwaters I know many whose are. I am thankful in this moment for the luring out of love and support in my community—a unifying coming together at a time such as this. I too am
Happy thanksgiving! I am thankful for this group of wonderful women! ❤️
Happy Thanksgiving ya’ll! Today’s reading is so good and timely. I really appreciate what Hannah had to say, we’re called beyond surface level niceties, which are still useful and can be used appropriately. But, in our Christian walk we all will face times where we will need building up and encouraging that surface level compliments can not reach. Matt Redmond over on HRT also stated it so well.
“So many Christians walk around discouraged. But if the gospel is true—and it is—then we have so much to encourage one another in. We are eternally secure. We have forgiveness, given to us by the conquering King (Colossians 1:14). He defeated the real enemy of sin and death (1Corinthians 15:26). We are citizens of His unshakable kingdom (Hebrews 12:28). We are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37). These truths are just some of what we should encourage and build up our brothers and sisters in Christ with.”
I’m grateful for each and everyone of you. You have no way of knowing how much this group has done to encourage me. So much good from both Hannah and Matt and the community today. Thank you!
I pray that you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!