Paul tells us that Christ died for us so that we can live together with Him. “Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another…” (1 Thess. 5:11).
It is crucial that we encourage our brothers and sisters in our small groups, where we “live together with Him.” Here are some specific ways to do so with some biblical examples:
• Write an encouraging letter (Paul to Timothy).
• Share how God has dealt with you in your life—your personal testimony of overcoming and growth (Paul’s testimony in Acts 22).
• Maintain loyalty in brotherly friendships, not withholding friendship when a brother stumbles or embarrasses you (Joseph and Mary, Paul and the Corinthians).
• Offer your supportive presence, even when you do not understand (the women at the Cross).
• Share specific helpful Scripture (author of Hebrews to the Hebrew Christians).
• Be an example or model (Paul, as in 2 Corinthians 7:2; 1 Peter 5:3; 1 Timothy 4:12; Philippians 3:17).
• Affirm another person’s worth by doing kindness when he hurts (Jesus in Matthew 25—feed the hungry, visit the prisoners, clothe the naked, etc.).
• Show hospitality (entertain—Hebrews 13:2; 1 Peter 4:9).
• Compliment a brother on the progress he makes in the faith (I Peter 1:22; 1 Thessalonians 1).
• Absorb another person’s problems into yourself (pay his debts—Paul with Onesimus, the good Samaritan).
• Rejoice with another in his successes (Acts 5:41).
• Be a cheerleader (offer celebration when the situation looks dim—Paul and Silas in prison).
• Jump in and help someone else actually complete a job (John and Peter with Philip in Samaria).
• Be psychologically available and willing to listen (Paul corresponded with the Corinthians with they needed and asked for his help).
• Stand up for a brother (or sister), defending him when others disparage him (Barnabas for Paul).
• S how a gentle, affectionate, concerned, sympathetic attitude (1 Thessalonians 2:7).
• Dialogue, discuss, study together (Paul and the Jerusalem council).
• Give money, food, etc. (Corinthians and Macedonians to brethren in drought).
• Pray (Paul for the Romans).
• Review with a brother (or sister) the record of God’s involvement in our past and present, so he can get the future into perspective (Paul to the Philippians, and on the shipwreck).
—Source Unknown
(White Wing Messenger, December 27, 1986, ABM Edition)