Some days we need more encouragement than other days. Sometimes we're very weary (like when we've stayed up too late watching the Cardinal's play-off game!) and need a simple mental pick-me-up. Sometimes we look at the list of jobs we must get done and think we'd rather go back to bed and pull the cover over our heads for the day. That's when a timely comment can keep us going and give us the extra energy to tackle that list.
So, if we know how much we need the encouragement from others, why aren't we more diligent to give it to others? Exhorting and encouraging is Biblical! One of my favorite verses is Hebrews 10:24-25: "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
There are a couple of things here. First, we need to spend some time thinking about, considering, how to encourage other people. Secondly, it's hard to encourage people if we don't see them. So go to church! And thirdly, there's an implicit warning here that as much as we need the encouragement now, there's coming a time when we will REALLY need it. So let's begin the habit now. You know the old saying, "Practice makes perfect."
Make it your goal today to encourage one other person! That wasn't so hard! Good job!!