Encouragement, I have observed, comes from two places: from those who are "above" us (not because they look down at us or are of a higher "class" than us, but those who care about us, who are more mature than us, and whom we look up to) and those who are "below" us (in the same sense as those who are "above" us, vice versa).
As we go about our lives, we face many temptations, struggles, and trials. I suppose it's pretty obvious how those "above" us encourage us; we naturally go to them for support and advice, and they give it. Another way I have observed that they give encouragement is the fact that we know that they want to see us succeed; if we do not, if we make the wrong choices, we will deeply sadden, and, perhaps, even discourage them. A few of these such people who are in my life have encouraged me, most likely unbeknownst to themselves, just because I know that they care, that they're praying for me, and I don't want to let their hopes for me fail.
And then, there are those who are "below" us who encourage us. Most often, in my observations, this form of encouragement comes when we know that they are looking up to us; and if we make a wrong decision, they may be thrown off the True path. And thus, we are encouraged to stay the course for their sakes. I think there's also something very encouraging when they come to us to ask for our advice; often it's humbling to think that omeone thinks we are worthy of giving advice, and if we do not have an answer (at least for me), it gives encouragement to study out the answer and know the truth.
Encouragement is a wonderful thing. We should be grateful to those who encourage us, and never forget the power even one little deed has to encourage others!
In Christ Alone,
