Encourage One Another

"Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near."

Hebrews 10:24-25

"Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing." 

1 Thessalonians 5:11

When the Bible calls us to encourage one another, what exactly does this mean? The New Testament word for encourage is such a beautiful picture by itself. The Greek word the Bible uses means, "to come alongside of, to stand with.” You encourage someone when you come alongside them and help carry the load; you help them keep going.

The year was 1992, and Derek Redmond was set to run in the semifinals of the 400 meter race at that year's Olympics. As the race began Derek took an early lead, and it looked as if he might win the race. At a heartbreaking 175 meters from the finish line, Derek grabbed his right leg. He had just pulled a hamstring and he immediately fell to the ground in pain.

He got up after a few seconds and was determined to finish the race. As he slowly hobbled down the track, a man suddenly ran from in the stands to his side. It was his dad.

"You don't have to do this," his dad said. "Yes I do!" replied Derek. "Then we'll finish together," said his dad. He put his arm around his son, and the two of them made their way down the track.

This is what it means to encourage!