NIV 365 / Encouragement

The NIV 365-Day Devotional Reading Plan

Day 236 of 365 Encouragement Paul was a great encourager. Why? Because he worked at it. After he planted a church, he was conscientious about visiting whenever possible, writing letters and sending others to minister in his absence. He always assured people of his accessibility, even though he may physically have been many miles away or even locked up in a prison cell. During Paul's meeting with the Ephesian elders he imparted some guidance for the godly leader who wants to uplift others. First, Paul was able to lend support because his listeners respected his example. If he had been unable to speak the words in verses 17 - 21 with a clear conscience, the meeting would have been over. He had made an investment in time and had demonstrated by his example that he was a man of integrity. Second, Paul didn't gloss over or distort reality (see vv. 22 - 31). Supporting people when all the news is good does not set one apart as a gifted encourager. Neither does soft-pedaling bad news. No matter what reality looks like, the leader who trusts God must blend God's sovereign presence with motivation to faithful effort (see vv. 32 - 35). Third, Paul prayed with the elders before his departure (v. 36) and demonstrated genuine love and care for them (see v. 37). Paul's story in this passage demonstrates that encouragement doesn't always accompany auspicious circumstances. Paul was facing hardship and separation from his friends, and their parting was difficult. But his uplifting words despite the coming trials show us that the gift of encouragement must always be related to both God's sovereign power and the leader's genuine concern. Taken from NIV Leadership Bible Acts 20:17-21 Acts 20:17-21 KJV 17 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. 18 And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, 19 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews: 20 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, 21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.