Encourage Those Who Are Fainthearted
Pope Shenouda III reflects on St. Paul’s teaching: “Encourage the fainthearted, support the weak, and be patient with everyone.” He explains that although God wants people to be spiritually strong, He is also the God of the weak. He does not despise those who fall, but supports them and helps them rise again.
The Christian should therefore never humiliate or discourage someone who is weak, struggling, or has fallen into sin. Instead, we should offer encouragement, support, patience, and hope. Christ’s treatment of Thomas, Peter, Zacchaeus, and the woman caught in sin demonstrates this compassionate approach.
The sermon also emphasizes patience and perseverance. Spiritual and personal growth may take time, so we should not quickly give up on people. Like a fruitless tree that is given another season to receive care, people need time and encouragement to bear fruit.
A practical lesson is given through the story of a student who repeatedly received very low grades. Although he still failed, the number of his mistakes decreased, showing that he was actually making progress. Encouragement helped him recognize that progress and continue moving forward.
The central message is: Do not destroy the weak; build them up. Do not take away someone’s hope; give them encouragement, love, patience, and a chance to grow.
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