Acts 20:35 (Amplified Bible)
35In everything I have pointed out to you [by example] that, by working diligently in this manner, we ought to assist the weak, being mindful of the words of the Lord Jesus, how He Himself said, It is more blessed (makes one happier and more [a]to be envied) to give than to receive.
House Rule #8 - Be Supportive of One Another. This is so important. Actually you should read from Verses 25:35. This verse talks about laboring not for personal gain but to labor for one another and to assist, help and support our brothers and sisters who might be going through some difficult situations. We should also support them whether they are new believers or mature believers who are just going through their through. Encourage them so they don't fall away from God.
The word encourage means to: 1 a) inspire with courage, spirit or hope; b) to attempt to persuade. 2) to spur on; 3) to give help or patronage to. When you encourage someone it fills them with courage and a strength of purpose. A synonym of encourage is a word "inspirit" which implies instilling life, energy, courage or vigor into something. I like that! That is just so awesome! So by encouraging someone, through Christ, we can instill life into them! I believe this Scripture has several meanings of "working diligently." We can support the weak by actually laboring - lending a hand - by actually using your hands to help someone who may be elderly and needs some work done at their house or yard work, etc. Basically anyone who might be weak in body or sickness and cannot help themselves. The other way is to support and encourage someone who is weak in faith. We can help them by praying for them, talking to them, give them some hope that they will get out of a certain situation with the help of Jesus. Also encourage them to read the Word because that is where they will get true strength and hope. Remember Jesus said "it is more blessed to give then to receive." Encourage and support each other today and every day.
