One of the simplest yet most powerful things we can do as church leaders is encourage people. Think about it—who doesn’t need a little more hope and motivation? In a world full of negativity and criticism, an encouraging leader stands out like a light in the dark, inspiring people to move forward, take risks, and grow. But encouragement isn’t just something you add on when you have time; it’s a core part of effective leadership.
Here’s a closer look at how we can be leaders who uplift, empower, and equip our people to thrive.
1. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Words
Words are a big deal. Proverbs 18:21 puts it straight: “The tongue has the power of life and death.” In church leadership, our words either build people up or tear them down. If we’re intentional about using our words to bring life, we create an atmosphere where people feel valued, loved, and excited to be part of something bigger.
Practical Ways to Be an Encourager with Your Words:
- Call It Out Quickly: When you see someone serving or using their gifts, let them know you see them. A quick, “Hey, you did an awesome job today!” goes a long way.
- Speak to Their Potential: Tell people where you see God working in their lives. Whether they’re a greeter with an amazing smile or a musician who brings people into worship, help them see their impact.
- Say “Thank You”: A culture of gratitude starts with simple thank-yous. Don’t let people’s hard work go unnoticed—make “thank you” a regular part of your vocabulary.
2. Lead By Example
Encouragement is more than words; it’s a lifestyle. When people see you walking the talk, it inspires them to do the same. As leaders, we need to model a life of hope, resilience, and joy. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being real and letting people see us leaning into God’s goodness, even in the hard times.
Ways to Lead with Encouragement in Action:
- Be Present: Show up where your people are. Be there for their events, ministry projects, and milestones. When they see you investing time, they’ll know you care.
- Stay Positive in the Storm: When challenges hit, show faith in action. Be the first to encourage others to trust God’s faithfulness—even when things look tough.
- Serve in the Small Stuff: Whether it’s picking up chairs, helping with cleanup, or jumping in on projects behind the scenes, your willingness to serve encourages others to do the same.
3. See People Through the Eyes of Jesus
Encouraging leaders look at people with the eyes of Christ—they don’t just see who they are today but who they’re becoming. It’s not about their struggles or limitations; it’s about the potential that God has placed within them. When we believe in people this way, we can call out the best in them.
Ways to Encourage People’s Growth:
- Identify Their Gifts: Help people recognize their strengths. If you see someone with a knack for teaching or a natural sense of hospitality, call it out and encourage them to develop it.
- Invite Them to Step Up: Sometimes, encouragement means challenging people to go beyond their comfort zone. Ask them to take on a new role, lead a project, or step out in faith. Growth happens when we’re willing to stretch.
- Mentor and Guide: Encouragement doesn’t always mean stepping back. Sometimes it means walking alongside people, being a guide, and offering support as they grow.
4. Create a Culture of Positivity and Appreciation
Imagine a church where everyone feels seen, appreciated, and supported—a place where people can’t wait to serve, invite others, and grow. That’s the power of encouragement! As leaders, we can build that kind of culture by making appreciation and positivity our default.
Ways to Build an Encouraging Culture:
- Celebrate Wins Regularly: Take time to celebrate victories, big and small. Whether it’s a new ministry launch, a successful event, or just a volunteer who went above and beyond, make celebration part of your routine.
- Champion People’s Ideas: When someone brings a fresh idea, don’t shut it down. Listen, encourage them, and if it aligns with your vision, empower them to make it happen.
- Give Grace: A culture of encouragement means showing grace. People need to know they can try, fail, and try again. Be the kind of leader who gives grace when things don’t go perfectly.
5. Keep Showing Up with Encouragement
Encouragement isn’t a one-time pep talk; it’s something we show up with week in and week out. People face real challenges and get discouraged, so they need a consistent source of support. A leader who consistently encourages others becomes an anchor, a steady reminder that they’re loved, valued, and called to more.
Simple Ways to Encourage Consistently:
- Pray for Your Team: Tell them you’re praying for them, and be specific. Let them know they’re on your heart and in your prayers.
- Drop Notes or Texts: Little things make a big difference. A quick text or a handwritten note saying, “I appreciate you” or “You’re making an impact” can brighten someone’s day.
- Remember Their Important Dates: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or big life event, taking the time to remember it shows you care. People want to be known and valued beyond just the roles they play.
6. Make Time to Encourage Yourself in the Lord
Here’s the truth—leading is hard, and if you’re not taking care of yourself, it’s tough to pour out for others. To be an encouraging leader, you need encouragement too. Spend time in prayer, Scripture, and worship. Let God pour His peace and hope into you so you can share it with others.
Ways to Stay Encouraged as a Leader:
- Spend Time in God’s Word: Anchor yourself in the promises of God. Passages like Isaiah 40:31—“those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength”—are reminders that God’s got this.
- Surround Yourself with Encouraging People: Don’t go it alone. Find other leaders who can encourage you and keep you focused on the mission.
- Rest and Recharge: Make space for Sabbath and moments of rest. A leader who’s rested and refilled can give so much more back to others.
Wrapping It Up
Being an encouraging leader is about creating a place where people can’t wait to come back. It’s about pointing people to Jesus, reminding them of their purpose, and calling out their God-given potential. When you make encouragement part of your leadership, people start to believe they’re capable of so much more than they realized.
Imagine a church full of people who feel valued, equipped, and loved. That’s the impact of encouragement. It’s not just about making people feel good; it’s about transforming lives and building a church that reflects the love and hope of Christ. Be that leader—the one who believes in people, cheers them on, and empowers them to be all God has called them to be.
