It’s National Day of Encouragement!

In a world that can often feel overwhelming, hope and encouragement are more than just comforting words—they are lifelines. Today, as we celebrate the National Day of Encouragement, we are reminded of the transformative power of hope we have in Jesus and the profound impact it can have on our lives and the lives of others. But before we dive into how we can spread hope and encouragement, let’s explore how this special day got started. 

The History of the National Day of Encouragement 

The National Day of Encouragement was first observed on September 12, 2007, thanks to a group of students from Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. These students attended a leadership conference and were inspired to find a way to address a pressing issue they saw in their community—a lack of encouragement in everyday interactions. They recognized that even a small word of kindness could change someone’s day, and possibly, their entire outlook on life. 

Motivated by this realization, the students proposed a day dedicated to encouraging others. Their idea quickly gained support, and soon after, the mayor of Searcy declared September 12 as the city’s Day of Encouragement. The movement spread, gaining the endorsement of Arkansas's governor, and by 2007, the U.S. Senate officially recognized September 12 as the National Day of Encouragement. 

Since then, this day has served as a reminder for people across the nation to take a moment to uplift those around them with words and actions of encouragement. But as believers, we know that this day holds an even deeper meaning—it’s an opportunity to share the hope that comes from Christ. 

Hope Can Change the World 

As Christians, we are called to be beacons of hope in a world that desperately needs it. In Romans 15:13, the Apostle Paul writes, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." This verse reminds us that our hope is rooted in Christ, and through Him, we have the power to partner with Him and share this hope that can change the world—one act of encouragement at a time. 

Hope isn’t just a feeling; it’s a force. When we encourage others, we are planting seeds of hope that can grow and multiply, touching lives in ways we may never fully understand. This National Day of Encouragement, let’s embrace the theme "Hope Can Change the World" and take action. Whether through words, acts of kindness, or simply being present for someone in need, our encouragement can be a vessel to share God’s love and grace – which changes the World. 

How to Celebrate the National Day of Encouragement 

There are countless ways to celebrate this day, but here are a few ideas to help you spread hope and encouragement where God has placed you today:

1. Share a Scripture Verse: God’s Word is the ultimate source of encouragement. Send a Bible verse to someone who might need a little extra hope today. Verses like Jeremiah 29:11 or Isaiah 41:10 can remind them of God’s promises and His unwavering love.

2. Pray for Someone: Prayer is one of the most powerful ways we can encourage others. Reach out to a friend or family member and ask if there’s anything they need prayer for. Even better, pray with them right then and there. I love sending friends a text with a voice memo of me praying over them. 

3. Acts of Service: Jesus taught us that serving others is a way to reflect His love. Offer to help someone with a task, volunteer at a local shelter, or make a meal for someone that God places on your heart. The small things are the big things in His kingdom.

4. Send a Card of Encouragement: Sometimes, knowing that someone is praying for you and thinking of you can be the spark of hope someone needs to keep going.

5. Encourage Yourself in the Lord: Remember the story of David in 1 Samuel 30:6, when he "encouraged himself in the Lord his God." Take some time today to reflect on God’s faithfulness in your own life. Remind yourself of His promises, and let His hope fill your heart.

The Ripple Effect of Christian Encouragement 

The beauty of encouragement is that it often creates a ripple effect. When we encourage someone with the hope of Christ, it not only lifts them up but also has the potential to touch countless others. This National Day of Encouragement, let’s commit to being vessels of hope and encouragement, sharing the light of Christ in a world that needs it so desperately. 

As we go through our day, let’s remember that every word we speak and every action we take can be a testament to God’s love. Let’s use this day to remind others—and ourselves—that with Christ, there is always hope. And that hope, rooted in His promises, truly can change the world.