Encouraging the Fainthearted

Our compassion and support play a crucial role in lifting up those who are weary.

In Unger’s Bible Handbook, Merrill F. Unger makes the following comments: “Responsibilities include comforting the fainthearted or discouraged (oligopsuchos), literally ‘little souled,’ supporting or exercising zealous care for the weak, the infirm, and those deficient in mental, moral or spiritual strength.” Interestingly, this word, fainthearted, is only used once in the New Testament—here by Paul. It speaks to a responsibility every believer has to care for and comfort the underprivileged around us. Let us consider this.

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it is easy to overlook those who are struggling. The fainthearted, those who are timid or discouraged, often suffer in silence. The noise of the world drowns out their voices. Yet the Bible calls us to a different standard. 1 Thessalonians 5:14 admonishes us to “Encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone.” (NASB).¹ This profound verse reminds us that our compassion and support play a crucial role in lifting up those who are weary.

The Apostle Paul penned the letter to the Thessalonians to commend them for their faith and to provide guidance on living a life pleasing to God. Chapter 5 of this epistle deals with various aspects of Christian conduct, emphasizing the importance of community and mutual support. Verse 14, in particular, highlights the need to recognize and respond to the ecclesial body’s varied emotional and spiritual needs.

The term “fainthearted” refers to individuals who are discouraged or demoralized. These people might be facing personal trials, health issues, or crises of faith. They might feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges and desperately need encouragement. Understanding the fainthearted means recognizing their struggles and offering a compassionate response. Many are overcome with addictions and the consequences of life choices. Some are born with limited or reduced mental capacity. The circumstances leading to this condition are not ours to judge, but the apostle clearly assigns their care and encouragement (but maybe not our enablement) to those of us who are stronger.

Words and actions can hold immense power. A kind word or a gentle reassurance can make a significant difference in the life of someone who is struggling. Encouraging the fainthearted involves speaking through their situations. We can give this help by:

• Personal Conversations: Taking the time to listen and respond with empathy and kindness.
• Written Notes: Sending a heartfelt message or letter that offers hope and encouragement.
• Public Affirmation: Recognizing their efforts and strengths in front of others, which can boost their confidence.

While words are powerful, actions often speak louder. Demonstrating love and support through tangible actions can profoundly uplift the fainthearted. Consider:

• Offering Practical Help: Assisting with daily tasks, running errands, or providing meals.
• Spending Quality Time: Being present and available to share their joys and sorrows.
• Praying Together: Joining in prayer can provide spiritual comfort and a sense of community.

Paul’s exhortation to “be patient with everyone” is crucial when encouraging the fainthearted. Patience allows us to walk alongside others without judgment or frustration, which can easily fester within us as we see the same mistakes and actions repeated. It acknowledges that healing and recovery require time and gentle support. Demonstrating patience means:

• Listening Without Interrupting: Allowing them to express their feelings without rushing to provide solutions.
• Respecting Their Pace: Understanding that progress may be slow and being okay with small steps forward.
• Remaining Consistent: Continuing to offer support even when it feels challenging or unrewarding.

Encouragement thrives in a community environment. This effect is why the Father has chosen this method for all of us. The strong, supporting ecclesial environment is designed for all community members. A supportive community creates a safe space where the fainthearted can find refuge and strength, and this is a fundamental concept for arranging boards to consider in planning and working to guide an ecclesia. Building such an ecclesial community involves:

• Creating a Culture of Encouragement: Promoting an atmosphere where positive reinforcement and support are commonplace.
• Fostering Open Communication: Encouraging open and honest dialogue about struggles and triumphs, and applying Scriptural principles and caring attitudes to build up rather than take down individuals.
• Modeling Encouragement: Leaders and members alike demonstrate encouraging behavior and attitudes.

Encouraging the fainthearted is not just a directive but a reflection of Christ’s love. Jesus himself demonstrated compassion and encouragement throughout His ministry.

In Mark 5, Jesus healed a man with many demons. The fainthearted around us may be afflicted with many “demons,” addictions, or reduced abilities. Our compassion should be like that of the Lord, who stopped what he was doing and took the time to assist, and because he could, restore man to a right mind. These are not easy solutions for us, especially if we do not have the training to deal with these situations.

There are other examples we can also learn from. John 5:2–9 records the healing at the pool of Bethesda. In verses 7–9, we read, “The sick man answered Him, ‘Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me.’ Jesus said to him, ’Rise, take up your bed and walk.’ And immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked.”

We do not possess the Lord’s healing power, but we could assist. We could be the person to sit with the impotent man and help him into the waters for healing. The principle of caring comes out loud and clear. We can provide transportation, we can sit and listen and console. We can furnish the necessities of life and pass along encouragement to those who are falling by the wayside, regardless of what caused them to fall.

Following Christ’s example, we embody Christian love and become instruments of God’s grace. Reflecting on our own lives, we should ask ourselves:

• How can I better recognize those who are fainthearted around me?
• What steps can I take to offer meaningful encouragement?
• Am I patient and empathetic in my interactions with others?

Peter also gives us a powerful example: in Acts 3, as Peter and John approached the temple for prayer at the ninth hour (approximately 3 pm), they encountered the lame man. The man, seeing them, asked for alms. However, Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, directed his attention to the man and, rather than giving him money, offered something far greater. “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” (Acts 3:6). This bold declaration underscored Peter’s faith in the power of Jesus’ name and his belief in the miraculous.

Peter took the man by the right hand and helped him up. Instantly, the man’s feet and ankles were strengthened. He stood, walked, and entered the temple with Peter and John, leaping and praising God. This remarkable transformation astounded the onlookers and served as a powerful testimony to the divine authority of Jesus Christ working through His apostles. This miraculous healing is rich with lessons that are as relevant today as they were two millennia ago.

Peter’s healing of the lame man is a profound example of faith in action. Peter believed wholeheartedly in the power of Jesus’ name and did not hesitate to invoke that power. His example teaches us that faith is not passive; it requires us to act boldly and trust in the divine power at work within us. Though we cannot do miracles, we can provide comfort and (more importantly) share the Truth and its saving power to those who are fainthearted.

While the lame man sought monetary help, Peter gave him something far more valuable—healing and wholeness. Today, many in unprivileged countries seek silver and gold from those who appear to have it. Giving particularly to brethren and sisters in far-off countries should always be done through the existing support organizations to avoid local issues and jealousy and meet actual needs. The example of Peter shows us that true generosity goes beyond material gifts. It calls us to give of ourselves in ways that can bring profound and lasting change to others’ lives.

Encouraging the fainthearted is a powerful act of love and service. It requires us to be attentive, compassionate, and patient. Through words and actions, we can provide the support needed to lift up the struggling ones. By fostering a community of encouragement, we obey the Biblical commands and create an environment where everyone can thrive. Let us commit to being sources of encouragement, reflecting the love of Christ to all we encounter.

Rob Webb,
Austin-Leander Ecclesia, TX