We assemble each week to worship God, but at the same time, we are spiritually encouraged. Hebrews 10:24-25 reads, “let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another…” The Hebrews writer teaches us that we should think about, “consider,” how to motivate, “stimulate,” each other to demonstrate love, and to practice good deeds. The writer also makes it clear that one result of our assembling is encouragement.
In times like these, when we are not able to assemble as often or in the same way as we always have, we may experience a void of encouragement. We may not get to experience the spiritual encouragement that we typically do during a week, and some may even become discouraged.
Take a few moments and encourage a brother or sister in Christ. Consider sending an note or card to someone who you would typically see, sit near, or embrace with a hug at a Sunday evening worship or Wednesday night Bible study. Think about making a phone call to someone who is homebound and potentially more prone to loneliness than you or I may be. Remember to encourage and pray for the elders who have made some tough decisions in a sincere effort to guard the flock (Acts 20:28). Make a special effort to fill the void.
Matt Langfield