Cheerleaders Wanted, Critics Need Not Apply

Send us a text

What happens when the light of hope begins to dim in a world that feels increasingly dark? In this powerful exploration of Romans 12:8, we unpack the profound gift of exhortation - not just as positive thinking, but as a spiritual calling that mirrors the Holy Spirit's own work as our Helper.

The Greek word for "exhortation" (periklesis) shares the same root as "parakletos" - the Helper Jesus promised in John 14:16. This reveals something extraordinary about our calling: when we encourage others, we're participating in divine work. Unfortunately, many churches have abandoned their role as lighthouses of hope, focusing instead on messages that reinforce gloom and resignation.

Jesus didn't suggest we might be light if conditions improve; He declared it our identity: "You ARE the light of the world." Like the anglerfish using bioluminescence to attract others in ocean depths, our hope serves as a beacon in spiritual darkness. People should look at Christians and think, "There's something different about them - they suffer well."

The most dangerous weapon against despair isn't found in arguments or political victories but in steadfast hope pointing to Christ. Hope keeps you putting one foot in front of the other when everything says quit. It's what sustained Paul through imprisonment and persecution, and what fueled the explosive growth of the early church despite facing circumstances far worse than anything most Western Christians experience today.

Perhaps most critically, we've forgotten Christianity was never designed to be lived in isolation. When hurting, our instinct is to withdraw - like wounded animals hiding to die - making us most vulnerable to attack. The early believers understood this, breaking bread together daily and ensuring no one faced struggles alone.

If you possess the gift of exhortation, your voice is desperately needed. The church doesn't need more critics - it needs more cheerleaders pointing to our ultimate source of hope. Will you stand in the gap and become the encouragement someone else needs today?