The God of Encouragement
We often talk about God as our Provider. We look to Him as our Healer. We worship Him as our Savior. And all of that is true. But today I want to remind you of another side of Him: The God of Encouragement.
In Acts 18, Paul had been pouring himself out in Corinth. The city was messy, resistant, and filled with idol worship. Ministry wasn’t easy, and Paul likely felt the weight of rejection and the constant threat of opposition. That’s when God stepped in with a midnight word of encouragement:
“Keep it up, and don’t let anyone intimidate or silence you. No matter what happens, I’m with you, and no one is going to hurt you. You have no idea how many people I have on my side in this city.” Acts 18:9 (MSG)
Can you hear the Father’s heart in those words? He didn’t just give Paul instructions. He gave him encouragement. And encouragement is powerful. One word from God can push you further than a thousand doubts can pull you back.
I’ve experienced this too. After pouring myself into a big project, I remember waking up the next day feeling empty. The doubts started creeping in. Did that really make a difference? Was it worth all the effort? It was in that quiet space that God met me. Not with a booming voice, but with a simple reminder deep in my spirit:
Don’t quit. Sometimes the hardest thing isn’t starting. It’s continuing when you feel unseen or unappreciated. God reminds us that perseverance is where breakthroughs are born.
Don’t be afraid. Fear whispers that you’re not enough, that you might fail, or that others won’t accept you. God cuts through that fear with the truth that His perfect love drives it out.
I’m with you. The greatest encouragement is God’s presence. You’re never walking into a room, a meeting, or a battle alone. His nearness is your strength and confidence.
That’s the beauty of serving the God of Encouragement. God doesn’t just give instructions; He gives inspiration. Encouragement is heaven’s way of saying, “You’re not done yet.”
And the truth is, God encourages us in so many ways:
His Promises – Every promise in His Word reminds us His plan is bigger than our problems.
His Presence – Over and over He says, “I am with you.” Nothing is more encouraging than knowing we are never alone.
His Power – In our weakness, His strength shows up. He gives us courage when we feel like giving up.
His People – God often sends encouragement through others: a timely word, a prayer, or a friend who lifts our head.
His Perspective – He helps us see beyond what we feel in the moment, reminding us there is hope for tomorrow and purpose in our pain.
The book of Proverbs says, “A good word makes the heart glad.” (Proverbs 12:25) Paul needed a good word in Corinth, and God gave it. I’ve needed it too, and maybe today you do as well.
What are you facing right now that makes you want to quit? Where is fear trying to hold you back? How would things change if you truly believed God is with you? Let’s bring those questions to Him in prayer.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You don’t just direct us, but You encourage us. Help us to hear Your voice when we are weary. Remind us that we are not alone and that You are working in ways we cannot see. Give us fresh courage today to keep going. Amen.
