Authentically Adele

Encourage the Encourager

Today, I want to share a cherished memory from my childhood. Growing up, my dad, a pastor, and my mum were beacons of encouragement, radiating positivity to everyone around them ( Those who know them can testify to this).

Picture this – during the uplifting moments of praise and worship, my parents quietly approached individuals, sharing heartfelt prayers or a comforting scripture. This spirit of encouragement wasn’t confined to the church; it seamlessly flowed with them wherever they went. Armed with her trusty landline, Mum would reach out to those on her heart, a quick call to pray for someone or give a scripture. 

Our home was always open to the community. The ‘office’ in our house became a sanctuary where my parents listened, prayed, and uplifted anyone who walked through the door. Each day was painted with beautiful hues of encouragement.

However, amid their tireless efforts to uplift others, I recall my mum longing for someone to extend the same kindness to them – a prayer, a message, any form of encouragement would have been embraced with open hearts.

It struck me then that while I witnessed my parents tirelessly encouraging others, I seldom saw anyone praying for or encouraging them. The givers of encouragement are rarely on the receiving end.

My mother and I came down to two key reasons why the encourager is hardly ever encouraged.

1. People tend to overlook the encouragers, assuming they don’t require it. The misconception prevails that they don’t need encouragement like we do, because they’re always connected to or hearing from God.
2. Secondly, many feel inadequate or intimidated to encourage leaders within the church, especially those with titles like Pastor, Senior Pastor, or Apostle. The intimidation often stems from who am I to do this and the fear of not knowing what to say or how to pray for them, which leads to inaction.

The truth is, we all need encouragement, especially our church leaders ( pastors, their families, elders, and deacons). They, too, long for encouragement, particularly in our challenging times. Encouragement doesn’t have to be a grand gesture or statement; a simple message expressing your thoughts or a verse – no matter how ‘common’ – might be exactly what they need to hear.

So, dear readers, my uplifting message to you today is a gentle reminder: Please remember to encourage the encourager. Don’t hesitate to pray for and with your pastors. Sending a heartfelt message or sharing a scripture can make a difference in their lives right now. And if you’re unsure how to pray for them, pray as you would for yourself – your sincerity will shine through. 

Imagine this: Your words, infused with divine inspiration, become a powerful force that transcends mere conversation. God takes your heartfelt encouragement and transforms it into a ministering touch that resonates deep within the hearts of our pastors.

Picture the impact – as you share your uplifting words, they don’t just echo in the moment; they take root and blossom into a garden of fresh seeds within the very soul of our pastors. Your encouragement becomes a source of strength, a wellspring of hope, and a beacon of light guiding them through their journey.

At the end of the day, you’re not just speaking words; you’re participating in a divine collaboration with our Heavenly Father. So embrace the exhilarating thought that you can be the channel through which God ministers to our pastors. Your encouragement is not just a fleeting sentiment; it’s a catalyst for transformation. Your encouragement is inspired by the Holy Spirit, and it has the potential to plant seeds of renewal and growth, creating a lush landscape of inspiration in the hearts of those who dedicate their lives to shepherding us.

Your encouragement is a gift that keeps giving, sowing seeds of joy, strength, and renewal. Get ready for the exciting journey of being a vessel of God’s love and encouragement in the lives of our pastors! Be blessed in Jesus’ name.