The word "encourage" is made of two roots "en" and "courage". We're pretty familiar with courage. That has something to do with facing difficulty with bravery and heart. The reality of life calls for many personal battles to be fought, with disease, personal disappointment and distress. We typically look at courage as a personal quality of strength. We tend to think that some people are courageous and others not...that it depends on the individual. That's where the little "en" up front comes in. It means to "make or put in". It turns out that we can help put courage into others. Just as the Lord encourages us by His word and His presence, so we can encourage those around us. I suspect that, no matter how brave some may appear, we all can benefit from support and encouragement. We don't stand alone in courage, we stand together encouraged!
Acts 9:31 Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace. It was strengthened; and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it grew in numbers, living in the fear of the Lord.
Hebrews 10:25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
blessings with encouragement,
Rob Smith
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