Judas and Silas's words of encouragement in Acts 1:5 changed lives. Your own words of encouragement can have a similar effect on your loved ones life.

Perhaps your spouse has untapped potential in one or more areas of life. That potential may be awaiting your encouraging words. Encouragement requires empathy and seeing the world from your loved ones perspective. You must first learn what is important to your loved one. Only then can you give encouragement. With verbal encouragement, you are trying to communicate, "I know. I care. I am with you. How can I help?" You are trying to show that you believe in your loved one and in their abilities. You are giving credit and praise.

Most of us have more potential than we will ever develop. What holds us back is often a lack of courage. A loving spouse can supply that all-important catalyst. Of course, encouraging words may be difficult for you to speak. It may not be your primary love language. It may take great effort for you to learn this second language - especially if you have a pattern of critical and condemning words - but it will certainly be worth the effort.

Take time to pray to...

Thank God for the encouragement. He offers in His Word and through other people.

Share with Him your feelings about encouragement - both as a giver and a receiver.

Ask Him to help you become a reliable source of encouragement for your loved ones.

Reflect...

What is the most encouraging thing anyone has ever said to you? What made it so meaningful? Complements speak mountains and when they tell you why! Doesn't your heart melt?

Do you consider yourself an encouraging person? Do you think your loved one would agree? Explain.

I like to show encouragement through action. They are blown away and see why you are encouraging.

How can you become the kind of encourager your loved one needs?

See where they are weak... and be their rock! Know and ask what they would like to be accountable for, or ask permission to know what they need.

Consider these passages for further study on encouragement:

Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God is with you,
    the Mighty Warrior who saves.
He will take great delight in you;
    in his love he will no longer rebuke you,
    but will rejoice over you with singing.”

Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ⁷ And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Acts 15:32 Judas and Silas, who themselves were prophets, said much to encourage and strengthen the believers.

What are you doing to encourage others today?