Encouragement comes from the heart. What can you do to help others to be encouraged when times get difficult? I received two very difficult messages today that made me think deeply about this subject. One message was a grieving husband and friend that had just lost his wife of many years. The other was a friend who had been involved in a car accident and his fiancée was injured critically. Also this week I received a message from someone who had achieved new business awards. I realize life is a constant flow of opportunities to connect and care about others. Ways to encourage: Show you care! Learn about others. Talk to them. Pray for them. Write to them. Nothing is more precious to someone than the words, “I believe in you and I love you.” Take advantage of every opportunity God gives you to encourage another. Is there another person that can benefit from your kindness? If you truly appreciate and and admire others, tell them! Write a simple note of thanks or encouragement and praise. Show your care with an act of caring. Whether we are at work, church or in halls of government. Do you know someone you can encourage today? Do you know of someone who needs your compassion? Words and actions have a profound impact on people that God brings to and through you. Take time to notice when someone does something good. Honesty is so important, others can tell whether you flatter rather than compliment from your heart. An attitude of gratitude is a key to your ability to effectively encourage one another. “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11