Years ago I was going through a very tough time. I was a long way from home, feeling alone, and wondering how I was going to move forward. My dad, one of the wisest people I know, read me a short passage from Scripture on the phone:

And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. (2 Corinthians 9:8 ESV)

I remember vividly the hope and life these words seemed to breathe into my situation.

I’ve since used that passage in my ministry over and over, and I’ve seen so many people be similarly encouraged.

The interesting thing to me is that I don’t even remember the specifics of the circumstance that caused my initial distress–but I do remember being encouraged. Because of that brief conversation, many others have been blessed, and they in turn will bless others.

That little moment when you point people back to God’s truth matters.  

Don’t underestimate the exponential power of encouragement.