The command to “encourage” others is found throughout the Bible.
In I Thessalonians 5:11-23 Paul gives many specific examples of how we can encourage others.
| Reference – I Thessalonians | Example | Suggested Application |
| 5:11 | Build each other up. | Point out to someone a quality you appreciate in him or her. |
| 5:12 | Honor leaders. | Look for ways to cooperate. |
| 5:13 | Show leaders great respect. | Hold back your next critical comments about those in positions of responsibility. Say “thank you” to your leaders for their efforts. |
| 5:13 | Live in peace. | Search for ways to get along with others. |
| 5:14 | Warn the lazy. | Challenge someone to join you in a project. |
| 5:14 | Encourage the timid. | Encourage those who are timid by reminding them of God’s promises. |
| 5:14 | Help the weak. | Support those who are weak by loving them and praying for them. |
| 5:14 | Be patient. | Think of a situation that tries your patience, and plan ahead of time how you can stay calm. |
| 5:15 | Resist Revenge. | Instead of planning t o get even with those who mistreat you, do good to them. |
| 5:16 | Be joyful. | Remember that even in the midst of turmoil, God is in control |
| 5:17 | Pray continually | God is always with you – talk to him. |
| 5:18 | Give thanks. | Make a list of all the gifts God has given you, giving thanks to God for each one. |
| 5:19 | Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. | Cooperate with Spirit the next time he prompts you to participate in a Christian meeting. |
| 5:20 | Do not scoff at prophecies. | Receive God’s word from those who speak for him. |
| 5:22 | Avoid every kind of evil. | Avoid situations where you will be drawn into temptation. |
| 5:23 | Count on God’s constant help. | Realize that the Christian life is to be lived not in our own strength but through God’s power. |
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