One of the hallmarks of being a leader is encouraging people, being able to touch the heart. So as Christian leaders, how can we faithfully encourage people, filling their hearts with hopeful assurance? Well, the answer to that question may be found in the oddest of places... a secular leadership book. Let’s talk about it.

Hebrews 10:19-25
19 Therefore, brothers,[a] since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, 20 by the new and living way that He opened for us through the curtain, that is, through His flesh, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

OUTLINE:
The 7 Essentials of Encouraging (based on The Leadership Challenge by Kouzes & Posner):
1. Set clear standards: Don’t lower the bar on goals or values.
2. Expect the best: Have hope built upon high expectations
3. Tell the story: Stories put a human face on success
4. Personalize recognition: Personally deliver good news and praise
5. Pay attention: Find the person doing the right things and doing things right
6. Create a Spirit of Community: Public ceremonies are a collective reminder of unity
7. Set the example: Personally live the values