Lent Day 7, Tuesday, February 24, 2026

“Encourage Someone!”

Can you encourage someone today?

Unless you are living on a deserted island somewhere, you are going to cross paths with another human being each day. Whether you are surrounded by friends, strangers, coworkers, or a room full of knuckleheads, you will have an opportunity to influence someone’s day.

Why does this matter?

Because today might be harder for folks than you realize, a quiet word of encouragement can go a long way. The way we speak, the way we respond, and the tone we choose all carry weight. We either build up or tear down.

Sometimes we think we are building up when we are actually pushing someone down. Sarcasm can sting. A dry wit may work among close friends but fall flat with others. Tough love has its place, but it is rarely needed in a passing conversation. Even the last word we insist on having should be one that lifts rather than wounds.

Does this sound easy? It is not, especially if you are having a rough day yourself.

If your day feels heavy, you may be tempted to look for someone to lift you up. That is understandable. But here is today’s challenge: Offer encouragement to others anyway. There is something powerful about choosing kindness when you least feel like it. Often the quickest way to shift our own mood is to brighten someone else’s.

Make someone’s day a little lighter today. Speak life. Notice effort. Offer gratitude. Give a sincere compliment. Send a message of appreciation.

Encourage someone today. You might be surprised at what it does for both of you.

“Only say what is helpful when it is needed for building up the community so that it benefits those who hear what you say.”  (Ephesians 4:29b, CEB)