Writing encouraging letters: the do’s and don’ts

It’s easy to underestimate the power of a card of encouragement. We live busy lives going throughout our day-to-day life without always realizing the people and situations around us that could be impacted by our encouragement, not to mention how it changes our own hearts.

Think of a time when you received a card or letter of encouragement. It may have been unexpected or came at a moment you felt overwhelmed and needed it the most. These cards spread the love of Christ, turn bad days into good ones, give hope when you’re feeling down, and become treasures long after your situation is over. That’s the power of encouragement.

Where do you start when writing letters or cards of encouragement? What should you include? What should you leave out? We’ve provided some ideas you can use to make sure that your letter or card is truly encouraging, along with suggestions for what not to include.

Do include Scripture

The psalmist wrote, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; and saves those who are crushed in spirit” [Psalm 34:18, NIV]. Who is better, then, to encourage fellow believers struggling through a medical diagnosis, a job loss, a family crisis? Including Scripture—the living Word of God—brings His unwavering comfort and encouragement right into the recipient’s hands. The Bible provides a multitude of uplifting verses to share.

Do include prayer

One of the most encouraging declarations a believer can hear is: “I’m praying for you.” Take this encouragement one step further and write out your prayer so your recipient can see the words you prayed over them and hold onto your prayer as they go through their situation. It will be a tangible reminder of what you’re asking and believing God for on their behalf, and can encourage their faith.

Do include stories of God’s power

As Phylicia Masonheimer so aptly said, “God’s kindness and past provision are a template for His future actions.” By sharing your encouraging stories or the ways you have seen the Lord working in your own life, you are giving encouragement to your fellow believers, friends, or family member of God’s work in their own lives.

Do be Spirit-led and heartfelt

A letter of encouragement doesn’t have to be lengthy, perfectly penned, or eloquently expressed, to be impactful. Don’t get tripped up in writing perfectly so that you never begin. Instead, listen to the Holy Spirit as He leads you and write from your heart! What makes these letters and cards so encouraging is that you took the time to write that lets the recipients know you’re thinking of them.

Don’t include

Don’t include advertising or promotional offers, health remedies, political materials, or information promoting various religious denominations. Don’t preach or share opinions or recommendations on what they should do or not do.

It’s important to remember that the purpose of writing a letter is to encourage someone as they go through a difficult situation. Sending such items as these does not accomplish this goal. Even though they may be sent with good intentions, these communication pieces typically benefit the sender more than the receiver.

Before you send something, ask yourself, Would I find this encouraging when I’m facing a stressful event? If the answer is no, don’t send it.

Letters of encouragement and cards are a huge blessing to those around you. Indeed, they often what people remember for years after the event has taken place. Be the hands and feet of Jesus by looking for an opportunity to encourage someone today—and notice the difference it makes. Happy encouraging!

Enjoyed reading our blog and want to learn more about Christian Healthcare Ministries the faith-based alternative to insurance clickhere.