The Spiritual Gift of Encouragement

The Spiritual Gift of Encouragement

Definition: 

Encouragement, also called exhortation, is the spiritual gift and supernatural ability to strengthen and edify believers in their walk with God. 

Description: 

People who have the gift of Encouragement bring hope to people who are discouraged or need to be strengthened. This spiritual gift is vital to the body of Christ because of spiritual warfare and the troubles of life that weigh on every believer. 

Examples from the Scripture: 

One of the clearest examples of this gift is found in the life of the apostle Barnabas (Acts 4:36). This man was so known for building up people that they began to call him Barnabas, a name meaning “son of encouragement.” 

When the Spiritual Gift of Encouragement gift is present: 

The gift of Encouragement is like a breath of fresh air. When you are around a person who truly possesses this spiritual gift, you cannot help but feel encouraged to accomplish the dreams and purposes that God has placed in your heart. 

When the Spiritual Gift of Encouragement gift is absent: 

Without the gift of Encouragement, it is easy for the Church to become disillusioned and distracted by the challenges of earthly struggles and spiritual warfare. 

In the life of Jesus: 

Throughout the ministry of Jesus, we see him encouraging people (Matthew 6:25-33) (Matthew 19:14). 

Do you have this spiritual gift?

* Do people thank you for encouraging them?

* Do you have the ability to see and relay God’s perspective when people are going through a difficult time in life?

 * Do you have a strong desire to minister to those that are hurting and needy? 

Practical ways to implement and develop the spiritual gift of Encouragement: 

* Remind your pastors and leaders what they mean to you.

 * Let someone know what one of their strengths is.

 * Spend time praying that God would strengthen this gifting. 

I hope these definitions and descriptions of each spiritual gift were helpful. If you would like to learn more about spiritual gifts or discover what spiritual gifts you have, take our free spiritual gift test.