Word of the Week - Encourage
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25
This past week, I lost a dear friend, Tim Lee (Tim Lee's Obituary), who was unexpectedly called home to be with the Lord. I have known Tim for nearly twenty years and had the privilege to serve with him many times through the JH/Outback ministries. Tim was originally from Baton Rouge, LA and a big LSU fan. We shared a passion for LSU football among other things, see attached pics from 2020 National Championship Game we attended together. Tim was likely the greatest encourager I have ever known. He didn’t just love-he loved BIG. His life was a living testimony of encouraging others: he sent daily texts to friends and family each day that were filled with Scripture, words of hope, pictures he had taken of certain memories, and often a song to brighten the day. I have been the recipient of hundreds and possibly thousands of these encouraging messages from Tim over the years. He also carried purple pens with the reminder, “Life can change on a dime”. Tim made sure everyone who crossed his path felt like they mattered. Tim lived Hebrews 10:24-25 to its fullest. He encouraged others daily, and his legacy inspires me-and all of us-to do the same.
The following is the last text I received from Tim on Saturday, August 23rd, “What is friendship in simple words? Friendship is a close relationship between two or more people who care about and support each other. It is built on trust, honesty, and mutual respect. Friends often share common interests and experiences, and enjoy spending time together. “No greater love than a man to lay down his life for a friend” John 15:13 Thank God that Jesus is our Friend. Geaux Be a friend today! Don’t look for a blessing, Be One! Thank God for friends I call them Angels! Grateful for our friendship! P.S. Please pray for Bailey Smith her brain tumor is back, and she needs a miracle in Jesus name. Lift up Landmark Gridiron event on Monday night!
So, what can we learn from the life and legacy of Tim Lee? First and foremost, to follow his amazing example of love and encouragement towards others. Encouragement is so powerful; we all need to be encouraged. Encouragement is defined as the intentional act of strengthening, uplifting, and inspiring another person through words, presence, or actions. At its core, encouragement means “to put courage into” someone-helping them persevere in faith, obedience, and hope when circumstances may tempt them toward fear, weakness, or despair.
The following are a few things I have learned from Tim and his amazing gift of encouragement:
Encouragers Speak Life – Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that “the tongue has the power of life and death.” An encourager uses words to lift, heal, and inspire. Like Tim’s daily texts, our words can remind someone they are loved, seen, and valued by God.
Encouragers Build up Others – 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” Encouragers look for ways to strengthen others, especially if they are walking through times of life challenges, whether through Scripture, prayer, a simple call, or showing up when it matters most.
Encouragers Reflect God’s Heart – True encouragement isn’t just about positivity; it’s about pointing people back to the Source of all hope. Romans 15:5 calls God the “God who gives endurance and encouragement.” When we encourage, we reflect God’s nature and remind other of His O and promises.
Tim Lee’s life and amazing example impacted me and so many in a big way and will continue to do so for years to come! The following is a recent and real life example of Tim’s impact and influence on me. In December of 2024 as I was praying and reflecting on the year ahead, I felt inspired by Tim and prompted by the Holy Spirit toward intentionally encouraging others. This is something I had done from time to time more spontaneously, but not with daily intentionality like my friend Tim. I set a goal to send 2-3 text encouragements a day to friends and family. This is what that looks like for me: After my morning rhythm of abiding time (bible reading, journaling, praying) and working out, I pray and think about who I feel led to encourage for the day. Sometimes it is because I know they are going through a challenging time and other times they are just on my heart and mind. I then self-record a short video encouragement and text it to them with a brief note. I have now been doing this for the past 8 months (Jan – August) and have sent nearly 400 individual encouragements that include the 3 elements noted above (Speak Life, Build up, Share God’s Word/heart). This has become one of my favorite daily activities because it is one of the most fruitful things I get to do each day. It is amazing how much a simple word of encouragement can impact someone. It is truly powerful when spoke with love and under the authority of God’s truth. By the way it only takes my about 5-10 minutes a day. Surely the highest Eternal Rate of Return (ERR) activity of my day.
Challenge Question:
This week, who can you intentionally encourage with your words, actions, or presence? Will you take time to spur someone on toward love and good deeds, just as our dear friend Tim so faithfully did!
In honor and memory of Tim Lee, let’s Geaux be an encouragement to those around us today and everyday for God’s Glory!