AN ENCOURAGING WORD IN A DISCOURAGING WORLD: A WORD OF PARTNERSHIP

Paul knew that His ministry would encourage the saints at Rome, but that he in turn would receive encouragement from them. We read, “For I long to see you…that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me” (Rom.1:11-12 NKJV).

The relationship between the preacher and the people is described as a partnership. He calls it a “mutual faith.”

One of the great things about the church is that each time we gather we are reminded that we are not alone. We look around us and find fellow pilgrims to stand with us. Their very presence is a powerful encouragement. Consider what the wise King Solomon wrote:
9 Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.
10 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.
11 Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone?
12 A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NLT)

Commit yourself today to be a minister of encouragement. Do you need encouragement? Tell someone. Your pastors care. Let us know how we can pray for you. Beyond that, if there are other needs we can supply, we will partner with others to make it happen. Don’t forget to partner with your pastors in return. Sometimes they need encouragement. They are not supermen. If Paul could appreciate the partnership of people, then you may rest assured that your pastor does.