Our Call to Encourage One Another
February 2nd, 2024.
“I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong—that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith. I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that I planned many times to come to you (but have been prevented from doing so until now) in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles.”
- Romans 1:11-13
These verses from Paul to the Romans contain something very powerful. In this passage, Paul is sharing this deep desire to visit Rome. More specifically, he expresses something we should all remember as we walk through our faith journeys. These are powerful words…
“That you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.”
Having spent a decade surrounded by other men in Bible studies, I can say with certainty that these words are true. We are called to be encouragers to one another. We are called to lift one another up, and to allow others to lift us up when we need it.
A pastor shared this from the front of the church years ago. “You’re either in a storm, you’re coming out of one, or one is coming.” I’ve walked through all of those seasons in my life, and I would bet with confidence that you have as well.
Do we need encouragement in our lives? Absolutely! As a husband, the dad of two teenagers who are about to leave for college, a business owner, and a leader, let me be as transparent as possible. I need all of the encouragement that I can get! And, across all of those men I’ve shared studies and built relationships with, so did they.
Every man needs other individuals in his circle to encourage him from time to time. No matter how strong or in control we may act, we will face those moments where we get tired, feel overwhelmed, and face unexpected challenges. There will be mornings when we wake up from a long night to face a long day, and we’ll need some encouragement.
There will also be days when our tank is full, and we become the encourager. Some days, it’s our cup that needs to be filled, and other days, we can fill someone else’s cup. In those moments where we find ourselves equipped to be the encourager, God’s call on our lives is simple. Look for those around you who need that. Seek out the brother who is:
- Struggling in their marriage
- Trying to love a child who is disconnected
- Mourning a lost job
- Fighting an addiction
- Stressed out at work
Be the one who shows up for them, and live out this verse. “That you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.” Live out that calling, lift one another up, and make this part of being the man God called you to be.
John Gamades
Author, WAR: A Tactical Guide for Christian Men