Biblical Encouragement: More Than Just Nice Words
When you think of the word "encourage," what comes to mind? Maybe positive vibes or cheerful compliments like, "I love your ride" or "Your hair looks amazing." While these are nice things to say, are they all that encouragement truly means?
As believers, we know the word "encourage" is much deeper than simple pleasantries. The biblical concept of encouragement, rooted in the Greek word Parakaleó, is far more profound. It's not just about making someone feel good in the moment; it's about calling them to greater strength, perseverance, and faith in Christ.
Parakaleó: A Deeper Look at Biblical Encouragement
In the Bible, encouragement is central to the Christian life. Barnabas, known as the "son of encouragement," was the leader who saw potential in Saul and worked alongside him to spread the gospel. Acts uses the word Parakaleó nine times, with the apostles encouraging new believers to stay strong in their faith, endure hardships, and follow Christ.
One of the most powerful examples comes from Acts 11:23: "When he (Barnabas) arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts." This isn't a fleeting compliment; it's a call to endurance, commitment, and growth in the Lord.
Encouragement in Paul's Letters
The apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of encouragement throughout his letters. He longed to see the Roman church so that they could mutually encourage one another in their faith (Romans 1:11-12). In Romans 15:4-6, he writes, "For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide, we might have hope." Encouragement was essential to building a community that could withstand trials and glorify God together.
In his letters to the Corinthians and Thessalonians, Paul continues to call for believers to encourage one another. The importance of speaking words that lift others up and inspire them to keep pressing on is a theme that resonates throughout the New Testament.
What Does Parakaleó Mean?
The Greek word Parakaleó goes beyond mere praise. It means "to call to one's side, to exhort, to encourage, to comfort, to urge" (Strongs Lexicon). This same word is used to describe the Holy Spirit, who comes alongside us to strengthen us in Christ. As Christians, we are called to encourage one another in the same way-strengthening each other, calling each other to a higher standard, and reminding one another of God's promises.
But encouragement isn't always just about affirming someone's actions; it also involves calling them forward, recognizing their potential, and helping them grow in Christ. Sometimes, this may even include a gentle rebuke or correction, but it's always done in love and grace, as Paul urges in Galatians 6:1.
The Power of Encouragement vs. Discouragement
The foundation of both encouragement and discouragement is courage. When we speak words of life, we give others courage to move forward in their journey with Christ. But when we speak words of anger, bitterness, or sarcasm, we are taking away their courage. In James 3, we are warned about the power of the tongue and the impact our words can have on others.
Proverbs 25:11 reminds us, "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver." This shows how a well-timed word of encouragement can have lasting value. Colossians 4:6 also teaches, "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."
A Personal Story of Encouragement
I'll never forget the words of encouragement spoken to me when I was 19 years old. At the time, I was unsure of my calling into ministry, but a youth ministries professor, Dr. Doug Randlett, saw something in me. He encouraged me to take his class, which eventually led me to pursue a career in youth ministry. That one word of encouragement set me on a path I could never have imagined.
Another impactful moment came when I ran into John, a former student from my time as a youth leader. He thanked me for encouraging him in his 8th grade year to pursue ministry. As a result, he was now studying pastoral ministry at Liberty University. Seeing how one word of encouragement can shape a person's life, I am reminded of the powerful ripple effect of encouragement in God's kingdom.
Moving Forward: Be an Encourager
As you work with children, youth, or others in your community, remember the power of your words. Our world is filled with negativity and discouragement, especially among the younger generation. You have the opportunity to speak life into others, to strengthen their courage, and to remind them of their potential in Christ. In the midst of a culture plagued by anxiety and uncertainty, your words can be a lifeline.
Let's make encouragement a cornerstone of our ministry. Just as Barnabas, Paul, and others built up believers, we too can create environments where encouragement is the foundation. Be a voice that strengthens others to fight the good fight of faith.
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Dr. Richard Brown, Jr. is the Founder and President of NextGenMatters, an organization focused on equipping leaders who serve the next generation. With years of experience in leadership development, he provides practical tools to help leaders grow their ministries. For more insights, subscribe to Rich's Thursday Tools at the bottom of this page.