When you read Paul’s letters in the New Testament it soon becomes apparent that he treasured words and actions by believers that encouraged him. Writing to the church in Philippi he urged the believers to be united in mind, love, spirit and purpose. This, Paul says will make his “joy complete”. All Christian leaders find joy as they watch their people becoming more and more godly as months and years go by.

What pleases and encourages Paul tremendously is not material possessions, or earthly recognition, rather it is to hear of Christians growing in grace and the image of Jesus Christ.

A Christian leader I have known for decades sends out an email prayer report regularly on their ministry. The moment it arrives in my mailbox I stop what I am doing and eagerly read it and pray for the various matters I read about. Some issues are victories, others struggles engaging the leader’s attention. What an encouragement that report brings to my heart as I learn more about that area of ministry. That dear believer honours the Good Shepherd and brings the needy face to face with the One Who loves them and died to free them from eternal perdition.

Recently I have had several subscribers to my daily devotionals write to thank me for the day’s devotional which spoke to their particular issue. Such words of encouragement bless me and I find I need such helpful words as much as anyone.

I love the New Testament book of Acts where the stories of Barnabas are recorded. He was a man who brought opportunities and people together. His name means “Son of consolation” His words and actions encouraged both Paul and John Mark more than once. The son of consolation is my role model and has been ever since I first learned of how he constantly brought light to dark places and lifted people up to become leading people in Christian ministry.

Do you know someone who would benefit from a word of encouragement today? Why not stop for a few moments, pray, consider what you might say to lift their spirits and phone them right now. Even to tell them you thank God for them, you love them, they have helped you here or there, you pray for them, and on and on the uplifting thoughts go.

Today bring love and light into the life of someone you know. Do it now.