Discussion: Who Encourages the Encourager…
Written by Chiara Noble
February 4, 2022
To encourage means to give support, confidence, or hope to someone. It sometime requires us to give advice to someone so that they will do or continue to do something. Or to help or stimulate (an activity, state, or view to develop), per Google. Think about what being an encourager means, what it requires and how it leaves you feeling sometimes... drained.
I want to break down some characteristics of an encourager, so we can get to the root of this thing. Maybe once we understand what it means, then we can do better by allowing ourselves to be encouraged as well.
Encouragers demonstrate a real and loving concern for people. Wanting everyone to be okay at all times. Encouragers are “fixers” Meaning we will try to help someone — to the point of becoming consumed with it, and taking personal ownership if that person is not okay. This can often cause us to take on other people’s problems completely, not leaving much room to tend to our own.
Encouragers are active listeners with empathy. We ground meaningful encouragement in understanding. Being able to interpret what other people are saying. This means not just listening to people talk, but actually hearing and deciphering the words that they are saying.
Encouragers see people as storehouses of untapped potential because we don’t see you where you are, but we have a vision of where you can go. We can look beyond the current circumstance and try to focus on the bigger picture or the result, and how to get you there.
Encouragers see circumstances and conditions as changeable. We are prayerful problem-solvers and help you create solutions and pursue positive change. We understand that it’s never too late to make a change. No matter what you have done in your past or present, each day is another opportunity to get it right.
Now that you have an idea (if you didn’t before you read this) who is an encourager and what we do, I defer you back to our topic. Who encourages the encourager?
I think about a doctor who needs a doctor for his annual physical and a dentist needs a dentist. An encourager needs to make sure they too have an encourager. Still, we have the greatest encourager of all.
We can look to the Lord for encouragement. God will never let us down. In those moments of life where it seems too hard, stressed out and overwhelmed, we should keep our minds stayed on him. Redirect our focus, change our mindsets, and take ourselves out of the equation. The Bible reminds us of the truth of God’s love for us, how God has equipped us, we his treasure, and our struggles are worth it.
Scripture reference
Matthew 11:28 NLT: Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
It’s understandably difficult sometimes to be strong and encourage others, when no one seems to know that you’re hurting — but rest assured we can encourage ourselves. A few lyrics to one of my favorite songs by Donald Lawrence and the Tri City Singers say:
“Sometimes you have to encourage yourself, sometimes you have to be speak victory during the test. And no matter how you feel, speak the word and you will be healed, speak over yourself, encourage yourself in the Lord.”
So, who encourages the encourager? Our Lord and Savior does! He will take care of you! Let this be a reminder to you. You always have someone to encourage you as you continue to encourage others.
Thank you for joining me for Friday at Sundown. Remember… Just Breathe!
Donald Lawrence & The Tri-City Singers - Encourage Yourself - YouTube
(Disclaimer: We do not own the rights to the music in this video)
About the Writer:
Chiara A. Noble: Is a visionary, a woman of many talents who wears many hats. She is an ordained minister, wife, mother, daughter, sister. A published author and the co-host of Victory Talk, a virtual talk show centered around helping people to grow, speak and live a victorious life. She has faced many trials/tribulations but lives by the saying “storms make trees take deeper roots.”
Contact: https://Vlfministrys.org
Email: chiara.noble@vlfministrys.org