Checklist for Encouragers:

The command to ‘encourage others’ is found throughout the Bible. In this section, Paul gives many specific examples of how we can encourage others.

• Build each other up. (vs. 11) Point out to someone a quality you appreciate in him or her.
• Give honor to leaders. (vs.12) Look for ways to cooperate.
• Think highly of leaders. (vs.13) Withhold your next critical comment about those in positions of responsibility.
• Give wholehearted love. (vs. 13) Say ‘thank you’ to your leaders for their efforts.
• Avoid quarreling. (vs.13) Search for ways to get along with others.
• Warn the lazy. (vs. 14) Challenge someone to join you in a project.
• Comfort the frightened. (vs. 14) Encourage those who are frightened by reminding them of God’s promises.
• Tenderly care for the weak. (vs. 14) Support those who are weak by loving them and praying for them.
• Practice patience. (vs. 14) Think of a situation that tries your patience and plan ahead of time how you can stay calm.
• Resist revenge. (vs.15) Instead of planning to get even with those who mistreat you; do good to them.
• Be joyful. (vs. 16) Remember that even in the midst of turmoil, God is in control.
• Pray continuously. (vs.17) God is always with you—talk to him.
• Be thankful. (vs. 18) Make a list of all the gifts God has given you, giving thanks for each one.
• Do not smother the Holy Spirit. (vs.19) Cooperate with the Spirit the next time he prompts you to participate in a Christian meeting.
• Do not scoff at those who prophesy. (vs.20) Receive God’s word from those who speak for him.
• Keep away from evil. (vs. 22) Avoid situations where you will be drawn into temptation.
• Count on God’s constant help. (vs.23) Realize that the Christian life is to be lived not in our own strength, but through God’s power.