Inspire others
2020-12-092 Corinthians 9:11 NCV
When a friend needs encouragement, we’re in a great place to give it to them. Paul wrote: ‘He will make you rich in every way so that you can always give freely.’ As God inspires us to follow His call and achieve all kinds of things for His kingdom, we should also be willing to pour inspiration on to others who need it. Here’s some advice for times when we’re called to encourage and inspire someone:
1) Assure them of God’s love, and yours. When people are nervous or unsure, it helps to remind them of how much God loves them, and how much you care for them too. Reassure them that it will never be withdrawn because of their appearance, achievements, or actions. Let them know they’re loved for who they are, and that their worth in God’s eyes is never in doubt.
2) Help them to discover their potential. ‘We have different gifts, according to the grace given us’ (Romans 12:6 NIV). Find out what they love to do, and help them discover their gifts and skills. Encourage them to take a step out of their comfort zone so they can stretch and grow their skills.
3) Don’t try to make them something they’re not. God gives each person their own unique personality and calling. Celebrate what makes them individual, and support the person they are, not the person you think they ought to be.
4) Help them build godly values. Encourage them to get into God’s Word every day. ‘All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work’ (2 Timothy 3:17 NIV). Let’s come alongside others and inspire them to do ‘every good work’.