One little word shows me a person who is on the way to holiness, separating the sheep from the goats-encouragement. Those who encourage understand the Heart of Christ. Encouraging people find solutions and do not dwell in miseries. I have been surrounded by whiners lately. They only think of themselves.
Meaning: To inspire with hope, courage, or confidence; hearten.
St. Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 5:
1 But of the times and moments, brethren, you need not, that we should write to you: 2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord shall so come as a thief in the night. 3 For when they shall say: Peace and security; then shall sudden destruction come upon them, as the pains upon her that is with child, and they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you as a thief. 5 For all you are the children of light and children of the day: we are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore, let us not sleep, as others do: but let us watch, and be sober. 7 For they that sleep, sleep in the night; and they that are drunk, are drunk in the night. 8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, having on the breast plate of faith and charity and, for a helmet, the hope of salvation. 9 For God hath not appointed us unto wrath: but unto the purchasing of salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 Who died for us: that, whether we watch or sleep, we may live together with him. 11 For which cause comfort one another and edify one another, as you also do.12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them who labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you:
13 That you esteem them more abundantly in charity, for their work's sake. Have peace with them.
14 And we beseech you, brethren, rebuke the unquiet, comfort the feeble minded, support the weak, be patient towards all men.
15 See that none render evil for evil to any man; but ever follow that which is good towards each other, and towards all men.
16 Always rejoice.
17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In all things give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you all.
I am avoiding people who are negative all the time. If I must be in their presence, I try and introduce encouragement or edifying words. That does not mean that I avoid unpleasant subjects. But, there is a difference between critiquing evil and being negative. I am not talking about being a Pollyanna, either. There is false encouragement and encouragement based on the Gospel. Admonishing the sinner could be encouragement, if one is kind and is being a true friend.
Look at the word-it means to bring courage back to a person who has lost hope.
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The prophets look forward to the Day of the Lord. St. John the Baptist called for repentance, but his message was one of hope.
There is a malaise among some people which is the absorption of their own problems in conversation. Most of those who I know who are complainers are, ironically, wealthy and comfortable. They look for negativity, and lack grateful hearts.
Most of my very poor friends find contentment is suffering and in God. They do not complain.
Gross negativity can be a sign of mental illness. But, even God can overcome depression and sadness, and lead those who need medication to help.
Pray without ceasing. Encourage one another, for the days will come when we shall be grateful for basic necessities. Get into good habits now. Think and act like Catholics, not like the pagans, who are in love with the things of this world and who lack gratitude.
