When you start looking up the subject of encouraging one another the first thing that becomes obvious is that encouragement played a great role in establishing the Hebrew nation.

Coming from a history of slavery to that of a conquering people was a huge step. The inability of the first generation to leave Egypt and have enough confidence in God and themselves resulted in 40 extra years of wilderness wandering.

Joshua had his hands full. Deuteronomy is full of passages talking about him having to give the people pep-talks. Passages in Judges, 2 Samuel, 2 Chronicles and Job speak on this subject. We can see that the grace of encouragement is a sign of a good leader. For Joshua, faith in God made it possible for him to continually remind the Israelites that they could accomplish what was ahead of them – to take the land and create a new nation.

The battles we are fighting today are not on such a grand scale as were Joshua’s. Our lives are still battle fields that are full of faith-shaking events.

Singing Oaks is full of encouragers! Among all the many problems that come up every day in our lives, there are people among us that have that unique ability of helping us get over the hard spots we’re confronted with—death, broken marriages, financial problems, problems with families, and spiritual crisis.

One of the most obvious encouragements is our “WE CARE” initiative. Last year our leadership was wise enough to set up a special fund to help members of our congregation who are in financial crisis. This fund has been lifeline for many member families. Paul’s words to the church in Thessalonica are appropriate comments regarding all the good things that have been done:

“He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:10-11 (NIV)

Thank you for the encouragement you give me. Working with you through the benevolence ministry is a blessing.