Merriam-Webster defines encouragement as the action of giving someone support, confidence, or hope.  What a world this would be if we offered encouragement to all those who entered our circle of influence.  At the same time eliminating all withholding of encouragement. 

That would mean leaving the judgment to Jesus and serving others with compassion.  Being present and a good listener, not necessarily in agreement, but showing a level of understanding.

Encouragement comes packaged in many different ways.  Some deliver tough love while others take a softer, more compassionate route.  The tricky part is delivering the message in a manner the recipient feels is encouraging.  

My first step is taking myself out of the equation so that I can better see and understand those needing encouragement.  Whether I have seconds, minutes, hours, or days to consider my approach I pray and thank Jesus for speaking through me, guiding me, and blessing the recipients of the encouragement.  

Providing support to someone in the form of encouragement requires compassion.  Delivering verbal or nonverbal support from the perspective of love creates a non-threatening environment and increases the chances of success.  People won’t always accept our encouragement, but when delivered with compassion it is hard not to appreciate.

As we encourage we build the confidence of others.  Throughout our lifetime we continue to gain confidence as trust is developed and love grows. 

Just as hope is believing before seeing, encouragement follows the same guidelines.  When people encourage others they are providing the belief before the action is accomplished.  Encouragement is the hope needed to accomplish the action.

Often encouragement is not packaged the way I would imagine, but I am grateful for the encouragement and opportunity gained through Jesus.  I pray, listen, and try to form an open line of communication that is free from judgment.  

If we are unsatisfied with our encouragement, hope is here through Jesus.  As I pray through my day, Jesus is my unconditional encouragement, my support, my confidence, and my hope.

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