Devotional on Encouragement: Build One Another Up

· Devotionals

For April 13

A devotional on encouragement starts with Paul’s simple instruction: “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11, ESV). Encouragement is not flattery. It is pouring courage into someone. God uses ordinary words from ordinary people to strengthen weary hearts.

Key Verse

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11, ESV)

Encouragement in Context

Paul founded the church in Thessalonica on his second missionary journey, but he had to leave the city quickly because of opposition (Acts 17:1–10). The young believers faced persecution, and some were grieving loved ones who had died. They had questions about Jesus’ return and what would happen to believers who had already passed away.

In 1 Thessalonians 4 and 5, Paul answers those questions. He assures them that believers who have died will be raised, and that Jesus will return, though no one knows the day. Believers are children of the light, so they should stay alert and sober (1 Thessalonians 5:4–8). God appointed us not for judgment but for rescue through Jesus, who died so that, living or dead, we will be with him (1 Thessalonians 5:9–10).

Then comes our key verse, beginning with therefore. Because of the gospel’s hope, encourage one another. Our encouragement is rooted in what Jesus has done and will do.

Building Up

Paul uses a construction word: build one another up. Picture a church as a building made of living stones (1 Peter 2:5). Every word of encouragement is like placing another brick, strengthening the whole structure. Discouragement, criticism, and gossip pull bricks out.

Notice also that Paul adds, as they already were. He encourages the Thessalonians by noticing what they are already doing well. That is a model for us. Good encouragement is specific and honest.

The Power of a Kind Word

Hebrews tells believers to urge each other on daily, so that none of them may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness (Hebrews 3:13). Encouragement is not optional decoration in the Christian life; it is protection. A timely word can keep someone from giving up, from falling into temptation, or from believing lies about themselves.

In Acts, a man named Joseph was so encouraging that the apostles nicknamed him Barnabas, son of encouragement (Acts 4:36). He vouched for Paul when others were afraid of him (Acts 9:27), and he gave John Mark a second chance (Acts 15:37–39). The church owes much to his encouraging spirit.

Encouragement Versus Flattery

Flattery says nice things to get something or to avoid conflict. Encouragement tells the truth in order to strengthen someone in God. Flattery is vague and inflated; encouragement is specific and honest. Sometimes encouragement even includes a gentle challenge, because loving someone means wanting them to keep growing, not just to feel good for a moment.

Making It a Habit

Encouragement grows when it becomes a habit rather than an occasional burst. Look for people around you who are tired, discouraged, or doing quiet faithful work. Tell them specifically what you see God doing in them. A text, a note, a phone call, or a few words after church can mean more than you know.

Receiving Encouragement

Some of us find it easier to encourage others than to receive encouragement. We brush off kind words or assume people are just being polite. But receiving encouragement humbly is part of being built up. Let others speak into your life. And if you feel deeply discouraged, do not hide it. Tell a trusted friend or pastor, and if discouragement turns into hopelessness, in the U.S. you can call or text 988 anytime.

A Personal Application: The Encouragement List

Make a list of five people in your life: one family member, one friend, one coworker or neighbor, one church leader, and one person who often goes unnoticed. Over the next five days, encourage one person each day with a specific, sincere message. Name what you see God doing in them or how they have helped you. You might be surprised how often people reply, I really needed that today.

Today, Try This

Send a specific encouraging message to someone today, naming one way you see God at work in their life.

Reflection Question

Who has been a Barnabas to you, and who might need you to be a Barnabas for them this week?

Prayer

Lord, thank you for the people who have encouraged me. Make me an encourager. Open my eyes to those who are weary, and give me words that build them up. Help me also receive encouragement humbly. Let our church be a place where your hope is spoken often. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 1 Thessalonians 5:11 mean?

1 Thessalonians 5:11 calls believers to strengthen one another with words and actions grounded in the gospel’s hope. Paul commends the Thessalonians for already doing this and urges them to continue.

What is biblical encouragement?

Biblical encouragement means giving courage, comfort, and hope to others through truth and love. It is rooted in God’s promises and aims to help people keep trusting and following Jesus, not merely to flatter them.

How can I encourage someone who is struggling?

Listen first, be present, and speak specific, sincere words. Remind them of God’s faithfulness, pray with or for them, offer practical help, and follow up. Encourage them to seek further support if needed.

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