Do you want to be an encourager? It’s something we all want to do, but knowing how to encourage others can be tough. And if you’re anything like me, sometimes I simply forget. Having a ready-to-go kit like this can help you to brighten someones day, lift their spirits, and remind them of God’s truth in their life.
It would be great if intention was all that mattered. We’d come out smelling like a peach most of the time, wouldn’t we. I mean, we all want to do better…to be better.
Unfortunately, our intentions don’t matter much if actions don’t follow.
Think about it. Does it matter if I…
… intend to clean my house, but never get around to it?
… intend to be on time but never check the clock?
I think we all intend to be encouraging people. But the real question is…do our actions prove that?
How to Encourage Others
There are tons of ways to encourage others. Here are a couple of articles I found that give lots of practical ways to be encouragers:
52 Practical and Thoughtful Ways to Encourage Others
Scripture Printables to Encourage a Struggling Friend
I’ve tried to make it a habit to speak positive things when I see them. (Because, you know, thinking something nice about someone doesn’t brighten their day unless you tell them). Something I’m not as great at is the written encouragement.
I have to say…getting a handwritten note always makes me smile. You too? But I’m pretty awful at follow-through in this area.
Often, some advance planning can help set us up for success. Make one of these kits for yourself, or put one together for a gift!
Put Together an Encouragement Kit
Get a container
Use a pretty basket, a simple plastic tub, or any kind of container you’d like. I like to use something that’s portable, so I can bring it to my dining room table to write out the notecards. But you could definitely keep your kit somewhere that you’ll see it and use it regularly.
I keep mine near where I like to read my Bible. It reminds me to use it when I see it.
Stock up on notecards
Check out some of my favorites:
Alumbra – Cards are hand crafted, with all proceeds going to spread God’s word in Peru
Birds and Berry – Handpainted nature themed notecards
Stock the essentials
For me sometimes the hardest part of getting something out in the mail is finding a stamp. They’re nowhere to be found! Remember, too, that not all cards need to be mailed. A hand delivered note is just as encouraging!
Besides stamps, make sure your container has pens (plural). Pens invariably seem to run out as soon as I sit down to write in a card. So having several handy is a nice thing.
Track your encouragement
Often times God will bring someone to mind to encourage. Unfortunately, if I don’t write it down, I will most definitely forget. Use a pretty notebook, journal, post-it or any other method that works for you
The main thing is, write it down. Not only will this list serve as a reminder, but it will be an encouragement to you that you are making a difference in people’s lives. Remember to pray for those on your list, too. God can encourage them in ways we can’t even imagine.
© Susan Landry, 2018--Used by permission. Originally published: here
Be sure to also visit https://thesparrowshome.com
