encourage & believe

I listened to the desperate cry of my client, “no one has ever believed in me”. I have heard that same statement from so many individuals in the counseling room over the years.

Many of them have been rejected, abused, judged, and betrayed. Maybe some of you reading this have felt the same way. Perhaps you still do. I know I have experienced that feeling of betrayal and it is very painful.  Our precious Lord felt it many times when He was on Earth.  His own people rejected Him and there were many who did not believe in Him. When we believe in a person it gives them hope to believe in themselves.
 
We are called to encourage others. Hebrews 10:24 (NLT) says “Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds.”  A  kind word can go a long way in the lives of those who feel unworthy or unwanted.  Believing in a hurting individual can uplift them from depression and despair.
 
I really like this quote by Luci Swindoll…“We need each other. Scripture says two are better than one. We are instructed to love, pray for, care about, accept, forgive, serve, encourage, and build up one another.”
 
When we encourage someone it gives them the strength to carry on, to grow, and to have joy. As we know, the JOY of the Lord is our strength! The Apostle Paul urged believers to reach out to those who were weak or struggling in life. He said, “Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14) (NLT) I understand that God’s people will endure persecution and pain thus a word of encouragement can help all of us to hang in there and stand steadfast no matter what!! Selfishness and self-centeredness can most definitely stand in the way of being an encourager so check yourself and focus on others that are going through a difficult time. Believe in others and take every opportunity to encourage them in the Lord…the fruit will be amazing!!   
 
​Vine Life Staff - SLP