One of the most encouraging things we can do for ourselves and others is to pray. The definition of encourage is to inspire with courage, spirit, and hope, and each of these things can be accessed through prayer.
We access Courage through prayer.
When we submit to God in prayer, we are reminded that He is able to do all that He says He can do. He has promised to be with us, to provide for us, and to protect us. Scripture gives us many examples of great leaders who found courage by crying out to God. Abraham (Romans 4:20-21), Moses (Exodus 17:4), and David (1 Samuel 30:6) all found strength and courage when they sought God in prayer. We too have that privilege. God encourages us to come to Him (James 4:8) and He promises to meet us there.
“The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? the LORD is with me; he is my helper. I look in triumph on my enemies.”
Psalm 118:6-7
We access the Spirit through prayer.
When we submit to God in prayer, we open the door for the work of the Spirit in our lives. The Holy Spirit is God’s gift to us (Luke 11:9-13) to intercede on our behalf (Romans 8:26) and to give us peace. The spirit teaches us, reminds us, and restores us.
“The mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”
Romans 8:6
We access Hope through prayer.
When we submit to God in prayer, we offer Him the sacrifice of our hope. God is the source of our confidence – our hope. It is only in Him that we can trust that our future is secure.
“Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”
Jeremiah 17:7-8
When we go to God in prayer, we access courage, spirit, and hope to encourage our own hearts. We are strengthened so we can encourage others.