Sin thrives when kept in the dark and kept a secret from the rest of the world. God created us to lean on one another and hold each other accountable for the things we struggle with. One of the best ways you can help a family or friend who is having a difficult time with sin is by encouraging them. Reminding others of who they are, who God created them to be, and how good how God is, can give them the courage to avoid the temptations and sins that they might be having a hard time with. When you are armed with the truth found in Scripture of who God is and that you are a child of the King, it is easier to recognize the lies of the enemy that he whispers to tempt you into sinning.
We all know some people, when it comes to encouragement, it’s very natural for them. But for others, it can feel difficult or awkward. When we get in the daily habit of encouraging others, we will all improve and it will be more second-nature for us. Our physical bodies need air to breathe. We need food for fuel. We need water to hydrate our systems in the same way. Our emotions require encouragement. And when we receive it, we thrive. When deprived of it, we shrivel up and part of us dies. Discouragement is like a demolition project, and encouragement is like a construction project. Which one do you want to be a part of?
Discussion/Reflection Question: When has someone else’s encouragement helped you avoid the temptation to sin?
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