ENCOURAGEMENT

The divine ability to motivate God’s people to apply and act on biblical principles, especially when they are discouraged or wavering in their faith. The ability to bring out the best in others and challenge them to develop their potential.

Romans 12:8

DISTINCTIVES:

• Reassure the faint-hearted.

• Strengthen the weak.

• Urge people to action by applying biblical truths.

• calling people to follow His will.

• Tend to be practical/pragmatic.

• Fix it or result oriented people.

• Focus is upon the promises and hope of God.

• Challenge/confront/comfort

• You get alongside people who are stuck in their walk. It is essential to the continued
growth of the church to have encouragers because WE all get stuck!

• Positive self-image

• Full of faith; trust and know God to be faithful.

CAUTIONS:

• You sometimes are too simple; quoting Romans 8;28 isn’t always the best.

• Don’t use Scripture out of context.

• Too optimistic; you must temper your enthusiasm to match each unique situation.

(Note: This gift usually has a mix with the following gifts: Mercy, Giving, Hospitality and Faith. These people are frequently found on the front line as greeters.)