Monday, May 18, 2009

+DEV+ Encouragement

Date: May 18, 2009 10:53 PM

Topic: +DEV+     Encouragement


Encouragement


Scripture Focus: Mark 5:21-43

“Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness” (Hebrews 3:13).


The note was not lengthy, but the message was powerful: “Don’t give up; keep on believing. God is still in control. I’m still praying for you.”


Encouragement like that helps me continue trusting God to work in difficult situations. Jesus was the model encourager. When Jairus approached and asked Him to heal his only daughter, who was dying, Jesus started to follow him home. But on the way, a woman who needed healing came to Him. While Jesus took time for her, Jairus’ daughter died.


Jesus encouraged Jairus by telling him not to give up. “Don’t be afraid; just believe” (Mark 5:36). “Just believe” literally means, keep on believing. After encouraging Jairus with these words, Jesus took charge of the situation and brought Jairus‚ daughter back to life.


Spoken or written words of encouragement are bridges to strengthen relationships. Is there someone you know who is going through a trial or difficulty and who could use your encouragement?


Insight: Whom can you encourage today? What will you say to that person to help him not give up? Perhaps you can share Psalm 27.

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