We live in expectation. This expectation may contrast with the current situation. The believer has a confidence that looks beyond what is taking place. He recognizes spiritually, looks ahead, even if it is not palpable so far. We live – like the rest of the world – in anticipation of a future deliverance (Rom 8:18-25).

This expectation allows for an affirmation of life, seeing life in a larger context (Ps 18:20). God’s work is included. Fellowship is celebrated and the Bible is perceived as the basis for outlook and encouragement. True encounter comforts and admonishes. There is a prospect of fulfillment of the expectation. That is what encouragement aims to do.

Zuspruch (Gr. paraklêsis) or zusprechen (Gr. parakaleo) is literally a “side-calling” or “calling aside”. It’s like being called aside so that a trusting conversation can take place. Encouragement is not for the masses, but something for you and me personally that can only take place away from the noise. We can award someone or be awarded ourselves. It is always a matter of encouragement with regard to the essential. Whether this is done admonishingly or comfortingly depends on the context.

For example, Paul writes in Ephesians:

“I speak to you now – I, the bound in the Lord, worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and meekness, bearing with one another in love with patience.”
Eph 4:1-2

Although himself a “bound” (prisoner), Paul here exhorts the recipients of the letter to live out their calling, with a lifestyle marked by love. Paul does not conclude from himself to others, but reminds what God has done and is still doing.

In his letter to the Colossians, the apostle speaks of this,

“That their hearts may be granted, and they may be united in love, and to all riches of full assurance of understanding, unto the knowledge of the mystery of God and of the Father Christ, in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
Col 2:2-3

The hearts are awarded! Paul invites us to enter with our whole humanity into the reality of God, where – in Christ – all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden. Encouragement happens where we engage in this richness and in this dialogue. We are allowed to. We can do this because these mysteries are no longer closed to us, but have been revealed to us. It is a mystery, the mystery of faith. People, touched by God’s presence, find themselves in a new reality.

Encouragement happens mutually. It is a service that we can perform for each other. This is not about sprawling theology or complicated thoughts. It is about the promise of the heart, in trust and wonder at God’s reality. Let the God of encouragement (Rom 15:5) encourage you in conversation, including the encouragement of the scriptures (Rom 15:4).

Come, get out of the noise, engage in a trusting dialogue.