Encouragement from others

What encourages you? What place makes you feel better just for being there? Who makes you stronger in your faith?

Two things happened over the past couple days that were encouraging to me. On Sunday my father-in-law and I went to the evening service at church to hear the youth minister candidate speak and answer questions. After we left, we engaged in conversation about the message and our impression on the candidate. Being surrounded by fellow believers in worship then engaging in conversation about the Lord's work was uplifting. Then today, out of the blue, I received an email from an old friend, one of my best friends growing up. He kindly invited me to a men's conference at his church back home. Although I cannot attend, that initial email sparked a chain of emails that were focused on our Lord and His work in our lives. This too, was extremely uplifting.

So, what do the scriptures say about this? About being surrounded by fellow believers. Proverbs 13:20- Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. 1 Corinthians 15:33- Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Very simply, we are to surround ourselves with fellow believers, those who build us up in our faith. Find those people who love the Lord, who build you up, and who are encouraging to be around.