BE ENCOURAGED in an Empowering Community
We are all on the journey to discover our place in the family of God, and to become more of the representation of Christ to the world. We are called to bless and strengthen each other as we all pursue the fullness of Christ.
Empowering Communities use the words of God to build each other up. Both the Bible, and the timely words spoken through the gifts of the Holy Spirit are used to equip and encourage one another.
General encouragements should be given to the community, as well as specific training, teachings and exhortations to each member. Each person is expected to give and receive encouragement; this is the Biblical pattern, as the Body of Christ builds itself up in love (Ephesians 4:16).
Key Words: Each One, All, Building Up in Love
Key Questions:
- Who have I encouraged or blessed by the Holy Spirit recently?
- When was I last specifically encouraged?
- Who needs an encouraging word today?
Key Activities:
- Coming prepared to bless and encourage (1 Thes 5:11, Col 3:16, 1 Cor 14:26)
- “Blessing seat” prayer (one person gets blessing and encouragement for 5 minutes).
- Share and applaud the small and large undertaking each member is going after in the Kingdom of God (don’t applaud just ‘successes,’ applaud obedient pursuits).