But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘Today,’ so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. (Hebrews 3:13 NIV).

I once heard about a young preaching student who went home for Christmas break. While he was there, a snowstorm stranded the regular minister in another town.  The leaders of the congregation asked the young man to fill in on Sunday morning.

The nervous student began his sermon by explaining the meaning of a substitute. “If you break a window,” he said, “and then place a piece of plastic over the hole — that’s a substitute.”

He preached his heart out and did the best he could. After the service, an older woman, meaning to be kind, approached him with a smile. Grasping his hand, she said enthusiastically, “You were no substitute — you were a real pane!”

Ever gotten a compliment like that? One of those well-intentioned remarks that leaves you wondering whether you should feel encouraged or insulted?

It’s easy to assume the worst, isn’t it?  We live in a world where people are quick to point out flaws but slow to express appreciation. Social media, conversations at work, and even interactions in the church can become places where sarcasm and negativity crowd out encouragement and kindness.

But God calls us to something higher. The Hebrew writer urged believers to “encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘Today.’”  The word “encourage” means to lift up, to comfort, to strengthen, to put courage back into someone who’s running low on it. Encouragement is not just a nice gesture — it’s a spiritual responsibility.

You never know what someone is carrying behind their smile — the burden they bear, the doubt they hide, or the weariness they feel.  A sincere word of encouragement can make all the difference. It can remind them that they’re seen, valued, and loved — by you and by God.

So today, make it your mission to offer someone a word that lifts rather than wounds. Say it clearly, kindly, and from the heart. Make sure there’s no confusion about your intent.  And if you ever call someone “a real pane,” make sure they know you mean it as a compliment!

Prayer: Father, help my words to build up rather than tear down. Give me eyes to see who needs encouragement today and the courage to speak it.  May my words reflect your love.  In Jesus’ name, amen.

Alan Smith
Reprinted with permission from Alan Smith’s Thought For the Day