The Power of Encouragement in Everyday Relationships | Strengthening Relationships Through Positive Words
"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up..." — 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)
It is gratifying to know all those years of cheerleading in middle school and high school weren't wasted.
Later, I became an aerobics instructor.
Then a sports mom enthusiastically cheering from the bleachers.
What I didn't realize at the time was that God was developing something much deeper inside me.
He was growing me into an encourager.
In my last blog, I confessed that mercy, helps, and serving were not among my strongest spiritual gifts when I first became a believer.
Encouragement, however, came naturally.
God wired me to celebrate the victories of others almost as much as my own.
I genuinely love seeing people succeed.
Everyone Needs a Cheerleader
I've often told my children, grandchildren, and now the great-grandchild arriving in November that I am their biggest cheerleader.
My once-reserved husband eventually became one too.
I've watched him pace the sidelines, celebrate victories, and support people he loves with genuine enthusiasm.
Encouragement has become part of who we are.
And honestly, the world could use a little more of it.
The Bible introduces us to a man named Barnabas.
His given name was Joseph, but the apostles nicknamed him Barnabas, which means "Son of Encouragement" (Acts 4:36).
Imagine being so known for encouraging others that it became your identity.
What a legacy.
The Choice We Make Every Day
I've been blessed with some incredible encouragers throughout my life.
A special shout-out to Tammy, Gena, Tathie, Carrie, Lily, and Glenna.
Their words, support, prayers, and belief in others have made a difference in countless lives.
I've also seen the opposite.
I've seen what negativity does to people.
I've watched criticism crush confidence.
I've seen harsh words linger for years.
I'm not a fan.
How about you?
The truth is we have a choice every day.
We can be supportive.
Positive.
Encouraging.
Or we can add to the noise, criticism, and discouragement already present in the world.
Personally, I prefer to be on Team Go.
Encouragement and Truth Work Together
One of the commitments Seth and I made early in our marriage was to become each other's biggest supporters.
We celebrate wins together.
We walk through failures together.
We remind each other that mistakes are often opportunities to learn and grow.
I know my husband has my back.
He knows I have his.
That doesn't mean we blindly agree with everything the other person does.
Real encouragement isn't empty praise.
If either of us were heading down a harmful path, love would require honesty.
But honesty should never become an excuse for being harsh.
Ephesians 4:15 reminds us to speak the truth in love.
Truth without love can wound.
Love without truth can mislead.
Healthy relationships need both.
As someone once said, "Brutal honesty isn't really honesty—it's just brutal."
Encouragement Changes People
A simple word of encouragement can change someone's entire day.
Sometimes it can change their life.
A child who hears, "I believe in you."
A spouse who hears, "I'm proud of you."
A friend who hears, "You've got this."
A coworker who hears, "Thank you."
These words cost very little.
Yet they carry tremendous power.
Encouragement helps people see possibilities instead of obstacles.
It reminds them they aren't alone.
It communicates value, worth, and hope.
And isn't that exactly what Jesus does for us?
Be Someone's Barnabas
You don't have to be a cheerleader, an aerobics instructor, or a sports parent to encourage others.
You simply need to notice people.
Look for opportunities to build someone up.
Offer a sincere compliment.
Send a text.
Write a note.
Say thank you.
Celebrate a victory.
Acknowledge effort.
Pray for someone and tell them you're praying.
Small words often have a bigger impact than we realize.
Let's be known as people who encourage.
Let's be people who build others up.
Let's be modern-day Barnabases in a world that desperately needs hope.
🌳 Waypoint Challenge
This week, intentionally encourage three people.
Not with a generic compliment.
With something specific.
Tell them what you appreciate.
What they've done well.
What you admire.
What difference they've made.
Watch what happens when you become intentional about speaking life into others.
📚 Recommended Resources
🎙️ Vows To Keep Marriage Podcast
David and Tracy Sellars provide biblical teaching and practical wisdom for strengthening marriages and relationships. Their focus on Christ-centered encouragement and healthy communication makes this an excellent resource for couples.
📖 Scripture Study
Acts 4:36 — Barnabas, Son of Encouragement
1 Thessalonians 5:11 — Encourage One Another
Ephesians 4:15 — Speak the Truth in Love
Proverbs 16:24 — Gracious Words Are Sweet to the Soul
🌳 Continue Your Journey
For a complete overview of the seven principles that strengthen extraordinary relationships, read The Field Guide to Extraordinary Relationships: 7 Principles That Strengthen Marriages, Families, and Friendships.
Question for Reflection
Who has been one of the greatest encouragers in your life, and how can you pass that gift on to someone else this week?
