by Pastor Krista Price
Week of October 5, 2026
Fall is one of the most exciting times of the year for sports fans. Football is in full swing, hockey and basketball are getting started, and baseball teams are battling for a chance at the World Series. Whether you're cheering from the stands or watching from your living room, there's something special about rooting for your favorite team.
But all this excitement around sports brings up an important question: Who are you cheering on in life?
We all know what it means to support a team. We celebrate their victories, encourage them through difficult seasons, and hope they'll make it all the way to the championship. But what if we approached our relationships with that same enthusiasm?
As followers of Jesus Christ, we're called to do more than simply focus on our own journey of faith. We're called to encourage others, walk alongside them, and help them discover the hope and promise found in Jesus.
Be Someone's Biggest Encourager
Hebrews 11 reminds us of the many faithful people who came before us. Often called the "Hall of Faith," this chapter tells the stories of ordinary people who trusted God through extraordinary circumstances.
Their journeys weren't always easy. They faced uncertainty, setbacks, and moments when the path ahead wasn't clear. Yet God continued working through their lives, and their examples still encourage us today.
The same can be true of us.
Think about the people God has placed in your life. Maybe it's a family member going through a difficult season, a friend struggling with their faith, or someone who simply needs to know they aren't alone.
Sometimes the greatest gift we can give someone is the encouragement to keep going.
We can become what some call "balcony people"—those who lift others up, celebrate their progress, and remind them of God's promises. Rather than standing on the sidelines, we can actively cheer others toward a deeper relationship with Christ.
Making Every Moment Count
Encouragement doesn't always require a grand gesture. Sometimes it happens in the smallest moments: a thoughtful conversation, an unexpected phone call, a prayer, or simply taking the time to listen.
The book Holy Moments offers a reminder that God can work through our everyday choices and interactions. Each day presents opportunities to make a difference in someone's life, often in ways we may never fully realize.
And those opportunities matter.
Our time here is limited, and we don't know how many chances we'll have to share God's love with the people around us. That's why it's important to be intentional about how we encourage others and point them toward Jesus.
Who Needs You in Their Corner?
As you enjoy your favorite teams this fall, take a moment to think about the people you're cheering for beyond the scoreboard.
Who could use a little extra encouragement this week? Who needs to hear that God loves them? Who might be waiting for someone to walk alongside them in their faith journey?
The greatest victory isn't found in a trophy, a championship ring, or a winning season. It's found in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
Let's be people who cheer one another on toward that ultimate victory.
This week, look for one opportunity to encourage someone in their walk with Christ. You never know how one small act of kindness or one conversation might help change the direction of someone's life.
And remember, you don't have to walk this journey alone. We're here to encourage one another every step of the way.
God bless, and have a wonderful week!
Scripture to Reflect On: Hebrews 11
This Week's Challenge: Think of one person who could use encouragement in their faith. Reach out, pray for them, or simply remind them that they're not alone. Be the person cheering them on.
