Building Up the Body of Christ One Word at a Time
Christianity.com recently published my article, “10 Forms of Gossip That Cause Church Hurt,” and it really took off (thanks, gang!). It turns out that a lot of people were interested in gossip (who would've guessed?). But that got me thinking: why? Were they victims? Have they suffered church hurt because of gossip? Either way, I didn’t want to leave readers focused on church hurt. After all, we’re the Church of Jesus—the Son of God, the Light of the World, and the Prince of Peace! Let’s rejoice and be glad in Him!
So, for this next piece, I figured it was time to shift gears and focus on encouragement—the antidote to gossip’s toxic effects.
In a world where words can either wound or heal, encouragement stands as one of the most powerful tools we have to build each other up. Gossip tears down trust and harms relationships, often driving people away from the church. But just as gossip can harm, encouragement has the power to uplift, inspire, and heal.
Here are ten creative ways to encourage someone to go beyond the usual “You’ve got this!” and the requisite fist bump and really show love in action.
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1. Handwritten Notes of Affirmation
Ah yes, the good ol' handwritten note—an endangered species in this age of emojis and autocorrect. But grabbing a pen and actually writing something by hand? That’s next-level encouragement right there! There’s something almost magical about a real note; it’s like holding a piece of someone’s time and thoughtfulness. So take a few minutes to write a card to a friend or church member, sharing exactly what you appreciate about them. Maybe it’s their kindness, their quick wit, or the way they serve others with a smile. Whatever it is, a few sincere sentences can brighten someone’s day (and hey, it won’t get lost in their inbox).
- Tip: Include a relevant Bible verse that speaks to the person’s character. For someone showing strength, try Isaiah 40:31, or for someone known for compassion, maybe Colossians 3:12.
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2. Create a “Celebration Jar”
This is a fun way to provide encouragement over time. Get a small jar, and each week, add a note about something positive you noticed about someone in your life or your church community. Write down something specific, like, “I loved how you helped with the children’s ministry this week,” or “Your smile during worship lifted everyone up!” Present the jar to them after a few months—it’s like a mini time capsule of kindness!
- Tip: HUSBANDS, PAY ATTENTION. Start this jar now and come Valentine’s Day, you won’t be scrambling around for over-priced flowers and a cheesy card. Present this jar, and you’ll be the husband of the year.
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3. Send a Surprise Care Package
Who doesn’t love receiving a surprise package in the mail (when the mail shows up)? Create a small care package with items that reflect the person’s interests or needs. For a busy mom, include a candle, a small devotional, and her favorite tea. For someone who loves music, maybe add an Apple Music gift card and some earbuds. Tailoring it to their unique preferences shows that you’re thinking of them.
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4. Host a “Gratitude Gathering”
Gather a few friends or small group members and invite each person to share something they appreciate about one another. This doesn’t have to be a formal meeting—this could be done over a shared meal or even during a casual coffee outing. Having others publicly recognize their strengths can be an incredibly affirming experience and boost their spirits.
- Tip: Use the ole voice memo app and record the compliments (with permission) so each person can re-listen later when they need a lift.
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5. Create a Prayer Chain with a Twist
Instead of a regular prayer chain, create an “Encouragement Chain.” Each person involved receives the name of another member to pray for specifically for a set amount of time. After praying, write a note of encouragement based on what you felt led to pray over them and pass it along. Over time, each person will receive words of encouragement from multiple members, creating a circle of support. (Full disclosure: Google helped me with this one. I’m not creative enough to think of something this meaningful.)
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6. Gift a “Book of Blessings”
This can be a fun and creative group activity. Buy a blank journal and pass it around to family, friends, or small group members, asking each person to write a note, blessing, or prayer for the recipient. Once everyone has added their message, present the book to the person. It becomes a cherished keepsake that they can turn to for encouragement whenever they need it.
- Tip: This is a great idea that could also apply to anniversaries, milestone birthdays, and retirement events.
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7. Surprise “Thank You” Video
Those who enjoy multimedia can gather video messages from people in the church or close friends to express appreciation and encouragement. Compile these clips into a short video montage and send it to the recipient. Seeing the faces of loved ones sharing genuine words of encouragement can be incredibly uplifting.
- Tip: Adobe makes an app called Premier Rush that is free, easy to use, and perfect for this idea.
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/jacoblund
8. Host a Day of Service in Their Honor
Do you know that one person you always see serving in your church? They are cleaning, moving chairs, picking up after church, and generally making you feel like you’re not carrying your load. Well, for someone who is always helping others, organize a small group to serve them for a day. This could mean taking on tasks they normally handle—cleaning up around the church, helping with their ministry, or even doing errands they’ve been too busy to handle. They’ll feel loved and valued by the show of support, and it’s a practical way to lighten their load.
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9. When You Ask How They Are, Really Listen to Their Response
One of the simplest yet most profound ways to encourage someone is to ask, “How are you?” and then genuinely listen to their answer. In our fast-paced world, it’s all too easy to breeze past these interactions, treating “How are you?” as a polite formality rather than a sincere invitation to share. But when we ask this question with an open heart and a readiness to truly listen, we show that we care, see them, and want to know them better.
- Tip: (Mostly for the guys reading this…) Show active listening by maintaining eye contact, nodding, and responding to what they say with empathy rather than jumping to advice. Sometimes, they just need someone to be with them in that moment, to bear witness to their experience.
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/VioletaStoimenova
10. Organize an “Encouragement Swap” Sunday
Designate one Sunday for an “encouragement swap,” where everyone brings a small card or note of encouragement to give to someone in the church. To make it fun and inclusive, place the notes in a basket, and at the end of the service, everyone picks one. It’s an easy way for people to encourage each other and build connections within the church family.
You Are Now A Professional Encourager
Well, look at you, making it all the way to the end of the article! Congratulations—you’re now officially a Certified Encouragement Pro™. Go forth and spread that encouragement like confetti!
Encouragement is a gift that costs us little but can mean everything to someone else. By shifting our focus from critiquing or analyzing each other’s lives to lifting each other up, we align ourselves with Paul’s reminder in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”
Let’s create a culture that thrives on love and support—one where gossip fades and encouragement reigns.
"I Speak Jesus" Songwriter Dustin Smith Says "It's Easier To Reject Than To Redeem" from Worship Leader on GodTube.
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Originally published Thursday, 31 October 2024.