mutual encouragement

…that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine.

Romans 1:12

As I reflect upon this passage I am aware of the ways in which mutual encouragement builds up faith as disciples relate well to one another. Here are just three quick observations:

Perspective. God uses the life experiences and application of His Word as His Spirit leads other people whom I am blessed to know. I deeply benefit from how God works in the lives of my brothers and sisters in Christ. I am called to encourage many, but often feel I get more encouragement from their stories than they may realize. As other people share their perspectives (in agreement with God’s Word) I find myself confronted, encouraged, challenged and sometimes chastened to better follow Jesus the way those people do! This is a very good thing. Occasionally I hope that my life does the same for them.

Progress. Looking back on over half a century of life together with other Christians, I find God has used so many different relationships of mutual encouragement over the years to help me mature in my understanding and application of the gospel. Different seasons brought different sets of relationships. Some are still existing decades later. Some have diminished. Some have literally died. But even those past encouragers now in glory continue to provide examples for me to emulate. My life is rich in so many of these relationships… a wealth I have amassed that I already see as treasure in heaven. I will not trade that for anything!

Purpose. Part of what I now live for is to continue mutual encouragement to the next generation. It is what I get to do daily as both a pastor and a counselor. It carries me forward in joy and deep reward. It is my hope to keep calling people to chase hard after Jesus with me… until I draw my last breath in the race. And then I will find joy in eternal significance that our faith has then become sight! Amen Lord! May we “be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith…”