I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong — that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith. (Romans 1:11–12)
There is no more important place to encourage one another than in the home. But doing this is no snap. Your spouse or kids know you better than anyone. They see the good, the bad, and the ugly. Paul is writing to a portion of his spiritual family, the Christians in Rome. He believes they will be able to encourage one another through their mutual faith.
You may be thinking, If my spouse or children have seen me at my worse, can I still encourage them through my faith? Yes, definitely! Encouraging another family member can take numerous forms. Many are very practical.
• Cleaning up the kitchen for your wife when you see she is exhausted after a hard day.
• Going to your son or daughter’s basketball game.
• Letting your husband relax in front of the TV and bringing dinner to him.
• Offering to lead your family in prayer Love expressed through kindness is powerful spiritual encouragement.
Try it!