The Gift of Encouragement: Reflections on Exhortation
Has anyone ever said something that made you feel seen, purposeful, and inspired to try harder, be better, or simply live more fully? My post yesterday, The Art of a Compliment, had me thinking along these lines, and it brought back memories from my “pastor’s wife days” when I studied Spiritual Gifts. One gift stands out in particular: the gift of Exhortation.
People with this gift have a remarkable ability to say just the right thing at the right time—words that encourage, challenge, comfort, and guide others toward growth. In essence, Exhortation is the divine enablement to present truth in a way that strengthens, motivates, and inspires action, especially for those who are discouraged or wavering in faith.
Those with this gift:
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Strengthen those who are weak in spirit
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Challenge others to trust and hope in God’s promises
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Urge others to action through the application of Biblical truth
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Inspire growth and deeper faith
I’ve always admired people who possess this gift. I had a friend growing up whose words could lift anyone’s spirit or make them pause and reflect on what truly matters. It’s a rare and beautiful ability to help others reach their potential simply by knowing what to say—and how to say it.
Personally? I don’t think I’m naturally gifted in this way, but I’ve come to deeply appreciate it. It’s a reminder that the words we speak can carry power beyond our awareness.
What’s your gift, and how do you use it? If you’re curious, there are several simple online tests to help you identify your Spiritual Gifts. While I can’t personally vouch for every test, they can be a good starting point to reflect on your strengths and how you can use them to encourage and inspire others.
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