JOHN K LOMAX

JOHN K LOMAX

The Power of Encouragement: Building UpOthers in Leadership and Faith

The Leadership Skill That Often Goes Unnoticed

When you think of strong leaders, you might picture confidence, vision, and decisiveness. But
there’s one skill that often goes unnoticed—the power of encouragement.

Encouragement is more than giving compliments or offering shallow praise. True encouragement is intentional, Spirit-led affirmation that lifts others up and calls out their God-given potential.

In Hebrews 3:13, we’re commanded:

But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘Today,’ so that none of you may be
hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.”

Encouragement is vital not only for the church but for families, teams, and anyone called to lead.

Biblical Examples of Encouragement

Throughout Scripture, encouragement played a critical role in sustaining and empowering God’s people:
  • Barnabas – The Son of Encouragement

Barnabas’s real name was Joseph, but the apostles called him Barnabas, which means “son of
encouragement” (Acts 4:36). When Saul first converted, many Christians were afraid of him.
Barnabas stepped in, stood by Paul, and vouched for him. Without Barnabas, Paul might never
have been accepted into the early church. Imagine, Paul wrote almost 2/3 of the New Testament
and if it had not been for Barnabas’ encouragement he may have never wrote a single word!

  • Moses and Joshua
Before Joshua took over leadership, God told Moses to encourage and strengthen him (Deuteronomy 3:28). Moses’s words prepared Joshua to lead with courage.
  • Paul’s Letters

Nearly every letter Paul wrote is filled with words of encouragement—urging believers to stand
firm, to not grow weary, and to press on in faith.

  • Jesus and Peter
After Peter denied Jesus, he could have been disqualified by shame. But Jesus restored him and told him, “Feed my sheep” (John 21:15-17), reminding Peter he was still called.
Encouragement changes lives—it transforms shame into purpose and fear into faith.

Why Encouragement Matters in Leadership

Encouragement is not optional. It is a critical leadership discipline that shapes the culture of
your ministry, workplace, and home.

1 Encouragement Strengthens the Weary
Everyone battles discouragement at times. Proverbs 12:25 says:
“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.”
Your words can lift a burden no one else sees.
2 Encouragement Builds Confidence
When you affirm someone’s gifts, you remind them God is working through them. This inspires people to serve boldly and trust God’s calling.
3 Encouragement Fosters Unity
Leaders who encourage create a culture of trust and collaboration. People thrive where they feel valued.
4 Encouragement Reflects Christ
Jesus consistently spoke life over those He encountered—healing the sick, affirming the humble, and calling people by name. Encouragement mirrors His love.

How to Become an Encouraging Leader

Here are practical ways you can cultivate the habit of encouragement:

  • Be Specific

Instead of vague praise (“Good job”), call out exactly what you appreciate:

  • “I admire the way you handled that challenge with grace.”
  • “Your faithfulness in serving others inspires me.”

How to Become an Encouraging Leader

Here are practical ways you can cultivate the habit of encouragement:
  • Be Specific

Instead of vague praise (“Good job”), call out exactly what you appreciate:

  • “I admire the way you handled that challenge with grace.”
  • “Your faithfulness in serving others inspires me.”
  • Encourage Publicly and Privately
Public affirmation builds community. Private words minister personally. Do both.
  • Make Encouragement Consistent
Don’t wait for big achievements—encourage often. A regular habit of encouragement keeps hearts soft and hopeful.
  • Pray for Words of Life
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you see who needs a word of encouragement today.
  • Encourage Yourself in the Lord
Like David in 1 Samuel 30:6, sometimes you must also speak life over your own spirit.

Conclusion

Encouragement is a powerful force God uses to sustain His people. Whether you lead a church, a team, or your family, your words can bring life, hope, and strength to those you serve. This week, look for someone who needs encouragement—and take the time to remind them of their worth and calling. Your voice might be the one God uses to lift them up.

Reflection Question

Who in your life could use a word of encouragement today?

Scripture to Meditate On

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11