The Power of Encouragement

(Deuteronomy 3:28 ASV) But charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him; for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which thou shalt see.

There are not many things in life that are more important in helping one succeed than words of “encouragement.”

All words are powerful, but an “encouraging word” seems to actually change one’s entire way of thinking. As a matter of fact it invigorates one to make the impossible, possible. It moves one from fear to faith. It releases a determination and confidence that causes one to accomplish things beyond their knowledge, skill level and even their capability. In other words, an “encouraging word” is the “jet fuel” that propels one into realms of fulfilling their God given potential.

In the case of Joshua, an “encouraging word” from God made him a renowned leader. He led the children of Israel into battles against armies that were much larger and more powerful than they were and yet they still won.

In the case of Moses, an “encouraging word” from his father-in-law helped him establish his vision as a leader and how to govern the people.

Elijah had gotten completely off course until he had an “encouraging meeting” with the Lord while he was in the mountains. As a result of that meeting Elijah began to fulfill the real purpose of his life as a prophet.

An “encouraging word” from a young man named Elihu helped Job recover from the pitiful state of mind that he was in. Elihu “encouraged” him that what seemed to be the end of his life was actually the prelude for the double portion blessing.

Words are always a wonderful way to “encourage” someone…such as a husband telling his exhausted wife, “I love you”…or a wife telling her husband, “I am standing with you.”

One can also be “encouraged” by a look, a smile or even a touch.

The other day after boarding an airplane to go on a ministry trip, I sat there watching the others board. While sitting there I began thinking about all of the pressures associated with the ministry and even wondered how I was going to be able to go to the places I needed to go. As I sat there pondering these things, all of a sudden my attention was drawn to a young mother and a little girl making their way down the aisle.

The little girl was only about two years old and she had blonde curly hair. She was beyond being cute…without a word she stopped in front of me and laid her little head down on my arm, then she raised up and kissed my hand and without a word she continued waddling down the aisle.

I believe I will never be the same after that sweet little kiss. I immediately knew that kiss was from the Lord and He was telling me that everything was going to be alright. That kiss was all the “encouragement” I needed to put me back on the “faith track.”

Father,

I am so happy that it did not take the wealth and power of the world to “encourage” me that day…it only took Your kiss by a sweet little girl. Lord I want to live my life as an “encourager” to others as that baby girl was to me.

Amen