The Art of Encouragement

Chapter 5The Art of Caring Encouragement

In this chapter, we will dive into examples in my own life of the Art of Caring Encouragement, and provide simple but effective ways to demonstrate it in the lives of those around you. First though, it is important to understand the foundation of the art of care—a determination to make others feel valued, appreciated, seen, and loved, without requiring anything in return from them.

We have an amazing example of the power of this profound, selfless care, in the scriptures written by our loving God, which offer us the ultimate encouragement as believers. We are able to care on such a deep level for others because our eternal Father cares for us. Psalm 37:23 puts this loving care on display: “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.”

Perhaps one of the most convincing passages that details God's depth of caring for us is Luke 12:6–7: “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.” So, if God remembers and thinks about the common, valueless birds that people sell for a pittance, how much more does He care for His children? And Matthew 6:25–33 provides us with the same message. Here, Jesus counsels against worry about our circumstances, illuminating the amazing truth that God provides for birds and flowers, things that pass quickly and are considered insignificant ...