Encouragement in Good Times

Encouragement in these times is vital. But what about encouragement in the good times?

What about those moments when people are thriving, using their gifts well, succeeding in their callings? This is where encouragement not always comes in as fast. One may notice that about someone whose work is different from ours—a nurse encouraging a pastor, a teacher encouraging an accountant. But when it’s someone on the same profession, field, expertise or similar gifts—a fellow pastor, a fellow nurse, a fellow lawyer—doing well, insecurity, jealousy or lack of generosity can creep in, and our praise becomes harder to give.

Yet the Bible calls us to encourage without limits. Hebrews 10:24 reminds us: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” Romans 12:15 tells us to “rejoice with those who rejoice.” Encouragement isn’t only for the valleys; it’s for the mountaintops too. It’s meant to give life, to celebrate growth, success, and faithful use of gifts.

When we think about encouraging one another, our minds often default to difficult times. Someone is in a pit of difficulty, facing challenges, or weighed down by life, and we lend our hands and hearts to encourage them to plow through another day, week or month.

As those who have freely received grace, we are called to freely give encouragement without limits. Hebrews 10:24 reminds us: "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." Romans 12:15 tells us to "rejoice with those who rejoice." Encouragement isn't only for the valleys; it's for the mountaintops too. When we remember that all our gifts come from God alone—not earned but given—it becomes easier to celebrate when others use their God-given talents well. It's meant to give life, to celebrate growth, success, and faithful use of gifts. When joy and success is met with support, it fuels confidence, strengthens bonds, and inspires others to keep walking faithfully in their calling.

We are simultaneously saint and sinner—justified by faith alone, yet still wrestling with our old nature. We encourage those who struggle, knowing we too are beggars showing other beggars where to find bread. And we encourage those who celebrate, recognizing that every good gift comes from above, and that as members of Christ we build each other in love.  When joy and success is met with support, it fuels confidence, strengthens bonds, and inspires others to keep walking faithfully in their calling.
 
In our Christian faith, we encourage those who struggle. And we encourage those who celebrate just as well.