Have you ever noticed how frequently Jesus encouraged people? One of is favorite expressions was “Cheer up” . The Greek word tharseo means “to take courage, don’t be afraid, take heart, cheer up”, and it variously, translated in other translations.

The first time Jesus used that expression was in the town of Capernaum. He had been speaking to a standing room only audience in a home when he heard a noise overhead. Soon a small opening appeared, and he saw four men tearing at the roof tiles in order to enlarge the opening. Finally, when the hole was large enough, he saw them lower a young man on a stretcher before the startled eyes of everyone.

What was the very first thing Jesus said to the paralyzed boy? He said, “Cheer up, son.” It was just a brief word of encouragement, but it lifted a sagging spirit at a time of desperate need.

Among the many gifts of the Spit listed in Romans 12:6-8 is a little known gift. It is called the gift of encouragement. Not many of us can preach, perform miracles, or practice the more spectacular gifts of the Spirit, but the gift of encouragement is one that most of us can use. Obviously some people more gifted in this area than others. I know Christians who can go to those who are sick and suffering, or the grief stricken, and offer a word of encouragement. Because it is a gift, they are able to say “Cheer up, “without it sounding trite.

Here is a challenge for each of us today. Let us think of one person we know who is despondent and discouraged, Then let us for to that person, show love, and in the name of Jesus, say “Be of good cheer.”

“I have told you all this so that you will have peace of heart and mind. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrow; but cheer up, for I have overcome the world.”

Leroy Patterson