Thinking Out of the Box to Encourage Others

Sometimes, a saint may think to themselves, How can I encourage others, when I live far away or am homebound? We are to be God’s representatives while we are here on earth: “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” (II Corinthians 5:20) A clear example comes to mind: There is a dear brother who has taught Brian and I much about the simplicity of encouraging others with what God provides.

Over years of being recipients of his unique ministry, we’ve observed a few ideas to apply in our circle of influence: Our friend writes down exactly what is pressing on his heart and mind for us, then sends it to us by snail mail (USPS). Everyone loves getting mail, yet so few use this impacting service opportunity to encourage.

How does it work? Weekly, Brian and I receive a letter, sometimes many, with copies of articles he’s read with his side comments. It feels like what someone would write in a personal journal: honest, unpolished, unfiltered, and totally from the heart. The letters include very personal thoughts of thanksgiving, concerns, heart-felt prayers, praise, ideas of encouragement, feedback on our newsletter, teachings and insights he has had in the Word and from other ministries, etc. To make this your own, think out of the box to use your imagination.

Think on This: Choose someone pressing on your heart that needs help or encouragement. Plan how to follow through! II Timothy 2:2 gives us clarity as to our responsibility. We can work it out in many ways to teach, encourage, and be there for others: “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”