“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another — and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” — Hebrews 10:24-25

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God coupled encouraging one another with spending time in a community. “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together … but encouraging one another” (Hebrews 10:24-25). He knew that if we tried to live the Christian life on our own, we would struggle. We need the encouragement of other believers.

Solomon wrote that two are better than one because if one falls the other is there to lift them up (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). We all need to be lifted from time to time. The pressures of our sport and the uncertainty of life can weigh us down. At those points in life, it’s natural to have doubts about our faith and our God.

But when we are in a Christian community, other believers are there to remind us that Jesus has overcome the world, that His plans for us are good, and that He will never leave us or forsake us. God specifically instructs that when we are together, we are to build one another up, speak words of grace, pursue peace, equip others, stir others on, share our burdens, and so much more.

Encouraging one another is not an option. God commands it. We each need it. If you do not have a Christian community, make it a priority to seek one out, whether it be through church, a small group, or a team Bible study. Allow others to encourage you, and you can be a source of encouragement for them as well.

— Karen Zando, Orlando Pride team chaplain

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