How can believers encourage the righteous, countering the effects described in Ezekiel 13:22? Ezekiel 13:22—Seeing the Problem Clearly “Because you have disheartened the righteous with lies—when I had not grieved him—and because you have strengthened the hands of the wicked so that he does not turn from his evil ways to save his life.” False voices in Israel crushed the faithful and emboldened the ungodly. Our calling is the opposite—lift up the righteous, deter the wicked. Why Encouragement Matters • Proverbs 12:25: “Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word cheers it up.” • Hebrews 3:13: “Encourage one another daily… so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” God uses our words to sustain faith, restore courage, and keep hearts tender toward Him. Foundational Ways to Counter Discouragement • Speak God’s truth, not opinion – Isaiah 55:11 promises His word “will not return to Me empty.” • Remind believers of their secure position in Christ – Romans 8:1, 31-39: no condemnation, no separation. • Redirect attention from circumstances to God’s character – Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” • Celebrate evident grace – Philippians 1:6 confidence: “He who began a good work in you will perfect it.” • Confront lies quickly – 2 Corinthians 10:5: take thoughts captive to obey Christ. Practical Habits to Strengthen the Righteous Daily speech • Offer scripture-saturated words rather than clichés. • Replace “You’ll be fine” with a promise like Psalm 34:18. Presence • Show up physically when possible—visits, meals, shared worship. • Galatians 6:2: bear burdens together. Prayerful support • Tell them you are praying—and actually do it. • Text short verse-based prayers (e.g., Colossians 1:9-11). Serving together • Invite them into ministry opportunities; purpose fuels perseverance (Ephesians 2:10). Gospel reminders during failure • Gently restore (Galatians 6:1); point to 1 John 1:9, not self-condemnation. Guard Rails Against Disheartening Words • Test every message by Scripture (Acts 17:11). • Refuse gossip and negativity (Ephesians 4:29). • Correct error quickly, lovingly (2 Timothy 2:24-25). • Keep short accounts—apologize if your words wound (James 5:16). Strengthening, Not Weakening, the Wicked • Speak truth about sin’s danger (Ezekiel 33:7-9). • Model repentance; invite them into it (Acts 17:30). • Withhold affirmation that masks rebellion (1 Corinthians 5:11). Encouraging righteousness never means tolerating evil. Consistency That Builds a Culture of Encouragement • Schedule regular check-ins—calls, coffee, shared devotions. • Memorize and share key promises (Psalm 119:11). • Celebrate testimonies publicly; they inspire others (Revelation 12:11). • Keep your own walk vibrant—overflow encourages best (John 7:38). Looking Ahead with Hope As we counter the lies that once disheartened Israel, we become channels of God’s comfort. “Therefore encourage and build one another up, just as you are already doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11) |
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