Life can feel heavy at times. From personal struggles to day-to-day stress, we all need a word of hope or someone to remind us that we’re not alone. Encouragement isn’t just about saying something nice—it’s a spiritual gift, a way of living, and a command in God’s Word.
The Bible highlights the importance of building each other up. It teaches us that through words of kindness, acts of love, and mutual support, we reflect God’s heart. A Bible verse about encouraging one another doesn’t just comfort the weary—it energizes the community of believers to walk together in strength, love, and unity.
Here are 35 Bible verses to help you understand the power of encouragement. Each Scripture is paired with a simple explanation to help you apply it to your own life and relationships.
1. 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
Explanation:
Encouragement isn’t optional—it’s part of Christian living. We’re called to strengthen and support each other regularly.
2. Hebrews 10:24-25
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works… encouraging one another.
Explanation:
The Bible reminds us that our presence and words can motivate others toward love and action. Never underestimate your impact.
3. Romans 15:2
Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.
Explanation:
Building up others means looking out for their best interests with selfless love and intention.
4. Proverbs 12:25
Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.
Explanation:
A kind word can lift someone out of anxiety or despair. Speak life when others feel low.
5. Ephesians 4:29
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up.
Explanation:
Our words should strengthen, not tear down. What we say matters in every interaction.
6. Colossians 3:16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly… teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom.
Explanation:
Encouragement often comes through Scripture. Sharing God’s Word is one of the best ways to uplift others.
7. Galatians 6:2
Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Explanation:
Carrying each other’s emotional and spiritual burdens shows Christlike love in action.
8. Isaiah 35:3-4
Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who have an anxious heart, “Be strong; fear not!”
Explanation:
We’re called to comfort the fearful and weak. God uses us to bring courage to others.
9. Job 16:5
I could strengthen you with my mouth, and the solace of my lips would assuage your pain.
Explanation:
Job understood the power of comforting words. Sometimes the right thing to say can soothe deep wounds.
10. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Two are better than one… For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.
Explanation:
We’re not meant to walk alone. True encouragement happens in partnership and community.
11. 2 Corinthians 1:4
Who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction.
Explanation:
God comforts us so we can do the same for others. Our pain can become someone else’s encouragement.
12. Philippians 2:1-2
So if there is any encouragement in Christ… complete my joy by being of the same mind.
Explanation:
Unity and encouragement go hand-in-hand. When we support each other, the whole body of Christ is strengthened.
13. Acts 15:32
And Judas and Silas, who were themselves prophets, encouraged and strengthened the brothers with many words.
Explanation:
Even in the early church, encouragement through speech was a powerful ministry.
14. Hebrews 3:13
But exhort one another every day… that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.
Explanation:
Daily encouragement can help others stay strong in faith and avoid spiritual pitfalls.
15. Romans 1:12
That we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.
Explanation:
Faith is contagious. When we share what God is doing in our lives, it inspires others to keep going.
16. 1 Peter 4:10
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another.
Explanation:
Encouragement is one way we use our God-given gifts to serve others and glorify Him.
17. Zechariah 8:13
Fear not, but let your hands be strong.
Explanation:
This verse encourages those who are discouraged. Strength often begins with a hopeful word.
18. 2 Thessalonians 2:17
Comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.
Explanation:
God’s desire is for us to be steady and comforted, especially through the words of others.
19. 1 Corinthians 14:3
The one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation.
Explanation:
Spiritual gifts are meant to uplift and encourage—not just instruct. Encouragement is deeply spiritual.
20. Isaiah 41:6
Everyone helps his neighbor and says to his brother, “Be strong!”
Explanation:
A community is healthiest when people regularly support and uplift one another.
21. 2 Timothy 4:2
Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season… encourage, with complete patience.
Explanation:
Encouragement requires patience. It’s not always quick or easy, but it’s always valuable.
22. 1 Thessalonians 4:18
Therefore encourage one another with these words.
Explanation:
After explaining the hope of Christ’s return, Paul urges believers to use that truth to comfort others.
23. Romans 12:8
The one who exhorts, in his exhortation.
Explanation:
If God gave you the gift of encouragement, use it generously. The body of Christ needs it.
24. 1 Thessalonians 3:2
And we sent Timothy… to establish and exhort you in your faith.
Explanation:
Timothy’s mission was to encourage the church. Strengthening faith is a powerful act of love.
25. Proverbs 27:17
Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.
Explanation:
Spiritual encouragement also includes challenging each other in truth and growth.
26. Jude 1:20
But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith.
Explanation:
We build each other up by growing in faith together and encouraging spiritual maturity.
27. Galatians 5:13
Through love serve one another.
Explanation:
Serving others with love is one of the most encouraging actions we can take.
28. 1 Corinthians 12:25
That the members may have the same care for one another.
Explanation:
Caring deeply for others involves encouraging them during both joys and struggles.
29. Hebrews 13:1
Let brotherly love continue.
Explanation:
Ongoing love includes regular encouragement—it keeps relationships alive and strong.
30. Psalm 10:17
O Lord, you hear the desire of the afflicted; you will strengthen their heart.
Explanation:
God hears every cry and strengthens hurting hearts—often through the words and actions of others.
31. 2 Corinthians 13:11
Aim for restoration, comfort one another.
Explanation:
Restoration and encouragement go hand in hand. Comforting others can rebuild what’s broken.
32. Luke 22:32
I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.
Explanation:
Jesus tells Peter to use his restoration to encourage others. Our healing can lead to someone else’s hope.
33. Psalm 119:50
This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life.
Explanation:
God’s promises bring life. When we remind others of His Word, we offer true encouragement.
34. Isaiah 50:4
That I may know how to sustain with a word him who is weary.
Explanation:
God equips us to speak the right words at the right time. That’s the heart of encouragement.
35. 1 John 3:18
Let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.
Explanation:
True encouragement is shown in both words and actions. Love others with your whole life.
Build Others Up With God’s Word
Every person needs encouragement. Whether it’s a timely word, a kind gesture, or simply showing up for someone, encouragement can make all the difference. These 35 Bible verses about encouraging one another show that uplifting others isn’t just helpful—it’s holy.
Encouraging others is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways we reflect God’s love. As you go through your day, ask yourself: Who can I encourage today?
Call to Action:
Which Bible verse about encouraging one another spoke to you the most? Have you experienced the power of encouragement during a hard season? Share your favorite verses, stories, or thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear how you’ve been uplifted or how you’re encouraging others!