Encouragement
Urging others to persist and persevere in their efforts to attain their goals; stimulating others toward love and good deeds. I Thess. 5:11, Heb. 10:24
Jesus sent the disciples out to do kingdom work. John 14 :12
In what situation could you use a little extra encouragement, right now? Is there something going on at work or in your family, that has got you discouraged or down? Let’s take a few minutes this week to talk about how we can give and receive Encouragement. There is more at stake than you know!
A Worthy Goal: (a little Encouragement from TBI) 🙂
Don’t stop investing wisely into your marriage until your children and friends envy your relationship and want one like it.
Be intentional about setting aside a few minutes this week or planning a date night to discuss Encouragement together.
Husband, would you lead this time by reviewing the statements to be completed or questions being asked so that you know how to make the most of your time? When you are ready, please initiate a “LOVE (Speak)” time with your wife.
LOVE (Speak)
- Where do you find you need the most encouragement – for the big goals and dreams or for the daily struggles you face? Describe some of your big goals/dreams. What are some of your spouse’s? Describe some of your daily struggles? What are some of your spouse’s?
- Are you the biggest encourager your spouse has? When your partner is in need of a boost or of someone to listen to his/her dreams, does your spouse come to you? Invite them to do that if it has been too long.
- Have you ever felt that someone (anyone, not just your spouse) has “minimized” your need for encouragement by just saying some hollow phrase like “Oh, you’ll do just fine” or “It will all work out, don’t worry”? Why is it important that your spouse, especially, actually engages with you in that moment of your need of Encouragement? Appropriate encouragement might sound like…”I know that must be a big challenge for you and I want you to know I care about you.” Or “I believe in you!” Or “You certainly do have some pretty amazing dreams and goals.”
- Barnabas was a great encourager, especially to Paul (see Acts 14:21-28.) Who are the Barnabases in your life? To whom are you a Barnabas? Is your spouse on either list?
- How can your spouse provide encouragement for you either in a situation that is a “downer” or in an area of vision or plans about which you are excited, right now?
What About the Kids? Ask the kids these questions or discuss the following concepts of Encouragement with other adults revealing what you have observed in your child(ren).
1. Are you having a tough time with a person at school or church or even at home? I want you to know that I love you and believe in you. You can talk to me about anything.
2. Are you facing a challenge that seems too hard for you? What do you think you should do? Is there a way I can help?
3. What would you like to do or to be one day? What are your dreams?
(Listen well and please do no tell them all the reasons they can’t do it. They may surprise you one day! 🙂
These questions work very well for adults too. Did you notice? 🙂