We live in a world where discouragement is easy to come by. It appears in the headlines, group chats, social media feeds, and sometimes even in our own homes. In contrast, encouragement often requires intentionality. The scripture reminds us to “encourage one another and build each other up,” yet many of us overlook the profound impact our words and presence can have. Here are five practical, God-centered ways to focus more on encouraging others, especially during busy times or when you feel drained yourself.
In a year filled with burnout, bad news, and online negativity, encouragement has become rare and powerful. Most people are silently battling something. In 2025, we need more believers who are willing to speak up and show up. Encouragement isn’t optional in this climate. It’s essential for spiritual resilience and connection.
Encouragement begins with being aware of those around us. In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to overlook the individuals beside us who may be quietly facing their own challenges. Make it a practice to slow down both physically and mentally. Take a moment to pause and reflect, asking God to help you see others as He sees them, full of potential and in need of compassion. A thoughtful text message or a simple phone call to check in can mean the world to someone longing for connection and support. Your small act of kindness might be the answer to a prayer they didn’t even realize they were making.
Encouraging others often starts with awareness. What’s the biggest obstacle that keeps you from offering it more often?
Don’t wait for a special occasion to offer a kind word. Simple expressions of encouragement can have a profound impact. For instance, you might say, “I’m truly proud of all the hard work you’ve put in,” “It’s inspiring to see how much you’ve grown,” or “I believe that God is working in your life in wonderful ways.” When these words of affirmation are spoken sincerely and with love, they can create a nurturing environment where hope can thrive and blossom. Remember, even small gestures of support can make a big difference in someone’s day.
One reason we often forget to encourage others is due to distraction. We’re overwhelmed by feeds and notifications. The Holy Focus app helps you block time-wasting apps, allowing you to create space to be present. Less scrolling means more awareness, and more awareness leads to more encouragement.
A handwritten note, a Post-it on the bathroom mirror, or a journal entry texted to a friend, encouragement doesn’t need to be elaborate; it just needs to be sincere. Written encouragement often becomes something people cherish, reread, and hold onto during dark moments.
I didn’t realize how thirsty I was for encouragement until someone sent me a three-line text that made me cry. It reminded me that I’m not alone, and that even quiet faithfulness matters. Now, I try to do that for others, to speak life even when I feel quiet. That’s why I created Holy Focus. Because a focused mind can become a generous heart, and encouragement starts with noticing.
It’s great to say, “You’ve got this,” but it’s even better to say, “God’s got you.” Bring the Word into your encouragement. Share a verse, offer a prayer, and help others anchor their hope in something more substantial than mere motivation, anchor it in truth.
Encouraging others is a sacred practice. It’s not about being loud or eloquent; it’s about bringing the love of Christ and communicating, “I see you. You matter. God’s not done with you.” This focus requires prayer, intention, and a willingness to step outside your own thoughts and engage with someone else’s needs. God uses your words to bless others. Through this process, He also softens your heart, deepens your empathy, and reminds you of the truth. Don’t wait until you feel ready. The world is hurting, and your encouragement might be the very thing God uses to initiate healing.
These simple habits helped Jesus stay grounded, focused, and close to God and they will transform your daily life.
