Is the Holy Spirit leading you to bring encouragement to someone today?
Encouragement: In the Old Testament
This is the Hebrew word "châzaq" (khaw-zak), and is used 309 times in the Old Testament. It is translated as "to fasten upon, to seize, to be strong, to be courageous, to strengthen, to repair, to make hard, to cleave, to be constant, to cure, to prevail, to fortify, to help, to be mighty, to aid, and to establish."
Encouragement: In the New Testament
This is the Greek word "parakaleō" (par-ak-al-eh'-o), and is used 108 times in the New Testament. The Greek prefix "para" means "to come along beside." It is used in the word paragraph. The Greek word "parakaleo" is translated as to call near, to invite, to invoke, to comfort, and to exhort.
Acts 20:35 ESV In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
Romans 15:4 ESV For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
Jeremiah 29:11 ESV For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Deuteronomy 31:6 ESV Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”
John 16:33 ESV I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Isaiah 41:10 ESV Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Mark 11:24 ESV Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.