Life-Giving Presence

Have you ever noticed that the more time you spend doing something with a group of
people, the more you feel encouraged to do that thing? I have had a gym membership
for a couple of years now, but until recently, I never really used it. But last year, I
decided to focus on my physical health, and to make sure I stuck with it, I asked a few
people in my life to help keep me accountable to going. I also joined a group fitness
class on Saturday mornings where I made “gym friends,” something I never had before. 
I found that these friends not only encouraged me during class, but I also saw them
when I went to the gym on my own. We have a group text where we all share victories
and encourage each other throughout the week. I have consistently gone to group
classes at many gyms, many times before, but I never had a group like this, and it has
made a huge difference in my ability to stay consistent and improve my physical health.
 
The author of Hebrews talks about this idea. “Let us consider how to stimulate one
another to love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24 NASB1995). This verse does not ask
us to consider if we should encourage each other, but to consider how to encourage
each other. This is not a suggestion; it is a direct instruction. While encouragement is a
spiritual gift, we do not get a free pass at this, even if we feel it is just not something we
are good at. In the same way that worship is not reserved for only those who possess
musical talent, encouraging others toward growth or to greater activity is not optional.
 
The author of Hebrews also goes on to tell us more about how we should act – “…not
forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one
another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:25
NASB1995). Encouragement is not something that can be done in a vacuum. It requires
interaction with other people, which is what we believers do when we gather on a
Sunday morning. Much like my gym example above, if you are attending church
regularly and actively serving, you will be encouraged to grow closer to God. But if you
have fallen out of the habit of regular attendance, you may find yourself drifting from
God as well. 
 
This time of preparation before Easter is a great opportunity to reflect on the areas of
your life where you spend most of your time. Think about areas of your life where you
would like to grow. Are you spending time with others who have a similar goal? Do the
people and the environment encourage you towards the growth that you want? Also,
consider areas where you would like to improve. Does your environment and the people
around you encourage you to do better, or do they hold you back and impede your
progress? For many of us, the areas where we spend most of our time are at work and
at home. Who are the people you encounter most, and what is your attitude toward
them? Is it an attitude of encouragement towards growth or an attitude of negativity? 
How can you focus your thoughts on stimulating those around you towards love and
good deeds? Take time today to reflect on where you are or can be an encouragement
to others.