So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you’ll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind.

1 Thessalonians 5:11a,b (MSG)

Imagine a world where encouragement is the norm. Where encouragers outnumber bullies. Where hurtful words are not spoken or posted on social media. And where news reports are all about people loving and encouraging others, not finger-pointing and people-bashing. That’s the world Jesus wants. Because encouragement breathes Jesus into our souls. It gives us life and fills us with hope. It nourishes (Proverbs 16:24), it has power over fear (Proverbs 12:25), and it softens hearts (Hebrews 3:13). And everyone needs Jesus, and the hope, nourishment, courage, and softer hearts that come with Him. 

Him so they can have new life, too. We are to encourage the rest of the world. We simply cannot accept the encouragement of Jesus with one hand without handing it to someone else with the other. An encourager just keeps encouraging—those they know and those they don’t. The people at home and the ones at the gas station, the grocery store, and sporting events. An encourager never stops encouraging, because an encourager looks and loves a lot like Jesus.

One of the apostles, Joseph, was such a great encourager that the disciples nicknamed him Barnabas, which means “Son of Encouragement.” Would the people in your life call you “Son or Daughter of Encouragement”? If not, start living up to that name. Speak, text, or mail some hope and love to someone you care about. Encourage strangers at the DMV, in waiting rooms, and in line at the pharmacy, even if it is nothing more than a warm smile. Spread some hope at Starbucks or McDonalds. Make encouragement as automatic as breathing. Because the more you give, the more you receive. Bless and be blessed. You are loved! 

Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back. Luke 6:38