Read Romans 14:1 through 15:13
Denise hurt for all the boys, including her own, every time their soccer coach shouted at them. Confrontation wasn’t her style, yet she couldn’t stand by as they crumpled in discouragement. One violent outburst had the younger team members in tears. Denise knew it was time to speak up.
Saying a silent prayer, Denise approached Coach Bob after practice. “Bob, I appreciate your energy and skill in teaching these boys. But is there any way you can get your point across with a little more encouragement?”
That evening, when he was alone, Coach Bob remembered his own experience as a young athlete, and how he hurt from his coach’s harsh treatment. He also remembered how good it felt when the coach encouraged him, recognizing and reinforcing Bob’s natural talent. Bob determined that night to become more of an encourager to his team.
God wants Christians to build one another up (Romans 15:2). Reflect on your own words and actions toward others in the last twenty-four hours, and ask yourself, “Am I building others up—or am I tearing them down?”
PRAYER SUGGESTION:
Holy Spirit, show me if I’m hurting anyone with my words and help me to encourage others.
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