PRAY: Praying for Those Who Need a Dose of Encouragement
Photo ©2013 Andrew Pieper
“No one is ever over-encouraged.” I’ve often heard my husband repeat that line. As an ordained minister for almost 25 years now, Tom knows. He sees people every day who are beaten down, drained, or disgusted. He hears stories of words that hurt rather than heal, of those who sow seeds of discord rather than unity, and of circumstances that, without extra care, threaten to suck away joy and peace.
Tom understands because, of course, our lives are not exempt any of those things, either. But much better than our understanding is the truth that Jesus knows and cares as well. During the weeks leading up to Easter, I reviewed the Passion story through the various gospels and realized anew how often Jesus was misunderstood and mistreated. What happened in His last week was horrific, but even before that, He was “a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief” (Isa. 53:3).
As I pray today, then, I’m praying for all of us. Will you join me?
Father, today I lift up those who need a dose, maybe even a big dose, of encouragement. I thank You that You know each need, each hurt, each wound, and each cry. I thank You that for You, the little hurts are not little, because You care for us as a mother tenderly cares for her child.
Lord, would You speak to those who need words of affirmation and hope? Would you let them know through people, through circumstances, through words and through Your Word that they matter to You? Please remind them that You love them as much as You love Your beloved Son.
Lord, in order for them to hear the truth of encouragement, they will also need to stop listening to lies. Please, God, break any negative cycles or toxic patterns in their lives so they can truly hear from You. Remind them of their instant access to You by the shed blood of Your Son, and block the enemy when he tries to enter in. Give them Your grace. Give them Your power. And send them each that dose of encouragement that say, “You matter to me.” “You’re special.” “Your presence makes a difference.” “I’m so glad you’re here.”
As we pray together and ask for encouragement, Lord, may we also surrender to be used as messengers of encouragement. Help us speak words of life and peace. May we be Your instruments of love and blessing. In Your holy name I pray, AMEN.
Do you need encouragement? Does something or someone have you in the grip of doubt or despair? Feel free to share your prayer need in the comments below or email me through the link at the top of the page.
No one is ever over-encouraged. Thanks for joining your prayers with mine.
