👧👦 Teen Devotional — Day 188

Building Others Up

📖 “Therefore encourage one another and build up one another…“
—1 Thessalonians 5:11a (NASB 1995)

Paul’s instruction assumes that believers are meant to influence one another positively. Encouragement is not presented as occasional or optional—it is part of how Christians are to live in relationship with one another. The goal is not merely to speak kindly, but to actively strengthen and build others up.

As a teenager, your words and actions carry influence, whether you realize it or not. Conversations, messages, reactions, and even small interactions can either strengthen someone or discourage them. In a world where criticism, comparison, and negativity are common, encouragement becomes deeply meaningful.

To encourage someone means more than offering compliments. Biblical encouragement points people toward truth, hope, and endurance. It helps strengthen hearts that may be weary, uncertain, or discouraged. Sometimes encouragement comes through words, and other times through presence, listening, or practical help. This kind of encouragement reflects the character of Christ. Jesus consistently strengthened others through truth, compassion, and care. As you grow in Him, He begins to shape the way you interact with people around you.

Through the Holy Spirit, Christ helps you become aware of opportunities to encourage others. He may bring to mind someone who needs support or prompt you to speak words that strengthen rather than tear down. Over time, encouragement becomes a natural outflow of a heart shaped by grace. Encouragement also requires intentionality. It means choosing to notice others rather than focusing only on yourself. It may involve reaching out, offering support, or reminding someone of God’s faithfulness when they are struggling to see it themselves.

Knowing Christ transforms your interactions with others. Instead of simply passing through relationships, you begin helping strengthen those around you.

A life shaped by Christ becomes a source of encouragement to others.

Prayer:
Jesus, help me encourage and build others up. Teach me to use my words and actions in ways that strengthen people and point them toward truth. Help me notice when someone needs encouragement and reflect Your love in every interaction. Amen.