Sending a message of encouragement: the power of a few words
You have probably already received a message that did you good: an "I'm thinking of you," a "Well done on what you did," a "You helped me without knowing it." It doesn't take long to write, and the effect is immense. This quest invites you to send such a message to someone today.
What it looks like in your day
A good message of encouragement is short, specific and sincere. Here is a recipe:
- Choose the person. Someone going through a demanding period, who has accomplished something, or whom you simply feel like thanking.
- Name something specific. Not "You're great," but "I noticed how you handled the meeting: calm, clear, respectful."
- Say what it gave you. "It reminded me that I could do the same."
- Expect nothing in return. No question that obliges a reply.
A few models:
- "I was thinking of you this morning. I know this week is heavy for you. You're not alone."
- "Thanks for your help on Monday. It really relieved me."
- "Your testimony on Sunday touched me. Thank you for daring to share it."
You can send this message to a believer as well as to a non-believer. For someone who doesn't share your faith, it is enough to stay simple and warm: no need to add a verse.
If you are in a hurry, three lines are enough. If you are shy, a written message is easier than a call. If you are a beginner at evangelism, it is a gentle way to make yourself present.
What the Bible says
The book of Proverbs describes what a good word does:
“Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.”
Heaviness makes the heart stoop, a good word makes it glad: in a few words, you can lift someone up. One of the most endearing characters in the book of Acts is a man nicknamed for exactly that:
“And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,”
Barnabas, "son of consolation" (or encouragement), marked the church by the way he supported others. Paul also writes that God comforts those in trouble so that we in turn can comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Encouragement is a gift received from God that we pass on.
Pitfalls to avoid
Flattery. True encouragement highlights a real fact. If you invent compliments, the person will sense it. Stay honest.
Ready-made phrases. "Hang in there!" alone, with nothing else, rings hollow. Add a personal detail.
Trying to fix the problem. A message of encouragement is not advice. It supports, it doesn't correct. Keep the remarks for another time.
Using a verse as a cover-up. "All things work together for good" can hurt someone who is suffering. If you quote a verse, choose it with care, or leave it out in favor of a human word.
Forgetting those who don't complain. Those who seem to be doing best often need a word too.
Today, think of someone and write them three lines. Send it before you overthink it.