Encouraging Each Other

Activity (Optional)

Go around the family and say one thing you appreciate about each person.

Devotional

Have you ever felt confused, sad, or unsure about what to do? Maybe you had a problem you didn’t know how to solve. That’s when it really helps to talk to someone who listens and cares–someone like a parent, teacher, or friend. They can encourage you and give you hope, courage, and confidence to try again.

Elizabeth encourages Mary when she visits her saying, "God has blessed you more than any other woman. And God has blessed the baby you will have" (Luke 1:42, ERV). Elizabeth was Mary’s cousin and was able to recognize what Mary was going through, encourage her, and bless her.

When we encourage others, we listen to what they’re going through and say something that would bless them. Jesus is the best at that! He listens when we pray, he understands our feelings, and he helps us know what is right and good. He encourages us to be brave and keep on doing our best, with his help. We can be like Jesus and Elizabeth too, and encourage the people around us.

Share

• What is something someone does for you or says that makes you feel encouraged?
• How can we encourage each other every day?

Pray

Dear Jesus, thank You for listening to me, helping me, and always being there for me. Please help me to encourage others the way Elizabeth encouraged Mary, and how you encourage me. Amen.