Listen to Understand, Encourage to Empower

The process of encouragement means to direct one’s mind and interest toward someone else. It begins with considering the other person and listening to them. We need to be students of each other, as we analyze and pay attention to the needs of others.

I suggest that as we listen to another person, that we “listen to understand.” This means a very intentional type of listening wherein we are not only hearing but we are interpreting every word. As we interpret, we begin to understand the needs of the other person. How well do you listen to others? I might suggest we all have room to improving our ability to listen–prior to speaking!

As for encouragement, Hebrews 10:24 says, “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works.”  Considering and listening leads to the opportunity for encouragement to follow.

Speaking life is my love language and provides me the opportunity to encourage others. Speaking life includes saying just the right thing, to the right person, at just the right time. This is my way of providing encouragement to others.

Action Step:

Say this little prayer: “Lord, help me be a student of people and help me meet their need for encouragement.” Pick out three people today that could use a visit, a call, or note. Then speak encouragement over them today.