July 24 – Encouraging Those You Lead

 

1 Thessalonians 5:11

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

SITREP:

What do your people hear from you when the pressure’s on? Are you the one who cuts them down—or the one who holds them together? In 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Paul isn’t just urging believers to stay strong—he’s reminding them how to do it: by building each other up. Encouragement isn’t soft. It’s strategic. A few words from the right leader at the right time can keep a soldier from breaking.

The church in Thessalonica was dealing with confusion, persecution, and fear about the future. Paul had just reminded them that they weren’t walking in darkness—they were children of light. They had hope, they had purpose, and they had each other. But survival in that environment wouldn’t come through isolation or criticism. It would come through encouragement. Through warriors who knew how to reinforce more than just walls—they reinforced hearts.

Breaking Down the Verse:

• “Therefore encourage one another…”
– Don’t wait for morale to hit zero. Speak life before the silence sets in. Encouragement is preemptive combat care.

• “…and build each other up…”
– Leadership tears nothing down that it isn’t also committed to rebuilding. Build courage. Build identity. Build resilience.

• “…just as in fact you are doing.”
– Paul’s not correcting—he’s affirming. He sees it happening and says, don’t stop now. Encouragement is an ongoing mission.

How This Applies to a Soldier’s Faith:

You’ve seen it firsthand:

·         The right words in a low moment can keep a man moving.

·         A well-timed “you’re doing good” can be more powerful than a command.

·         A leader who encourages builds loyalty that lasts beyond the battlefield.

Encouragement isn’t soft—it’s strategic:

·         It keeps the team focused when fatigue sets in.

·         It reminds men who they are when shame tries to define them.

·         It breathes strength back into hearts that are battle-worn.

As a godly leader, your role is more than issuing orders. You’re responsible for morale, direction, and emotional readiness. So speak strength. Call out progress. See the man who’s slipping—and be the voice that lifts him back up.

ENDEX:

A strong leader doesn’t just give direction—he gives encouragement. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 is your reminder that your words can be a shield, a spark, or a stepping stone. Use them to build warriors who know they’re seen, valued, and capable. In combat and in faith, that kind of leadership changes everything.

AAR:

When was the last time you built someone up instead of just pushing through your own mission? 1 Thessalonians 5:11 isn’t just a feel-good verse—it’s a battlefield directive: “Encourage one another and build each other up.” In combat zones, morale is fuel. A well-timed word can keep someone in the fight. Spiritually, it’s the same. You’re not just called to endure—you’re called to reinforce others. Your challenge: Pick one person in your unit, your circle, or your family who’s showing signs of wear. Speak life into them. Give them what you wish someone had given you when you were at your lowest.

You’re Not Just a Fighter—You’re a Builder

Warriors don’t just fight battles—they strengthen the line. Encouragement isn’t soft; it’s strategic. It restores resolve, ignites hope, and reminds your brother or sister that they’re not alone. Every word of truth you speak is like a sandbag in a flood zone—it holds back the tide for someone else. Don’t underestimate your voice. You’re armed with more than just grit—you’ve got the power to reinforce someone’s faith. Use it. Because in the kingdom, victory isn’t just personal—it’s shared.

Make your voice count—share what you’ve lived.

Share your experiences in the comments below. Your words could encourage someone else walking a similar path.

If you're comfortable, include as much or as little personal detail as you’d like. We suggest:

• Name
• Veteran, Retired, Family Member etc.
• Service Branch
• Years of Service (or Deployment Dates and Locations)

Every story matters—and yours might be exactly what someone else needs to hear.