The word encouragement in the Bible comes from “para,” which means alongside, and “kalew,” which means call. So to “encourage” is to “call alongside.” This is the same term used for the Holy Spirit, who is called alongside to help us live to the glory of God. The Holy Spirit enables us to understand the Word of God, assures us of our salvation, and empowers us to grow in Christ-likeness. The Scriptures also teach us that God is a God of encouragement. Romans 15:5-6 says, “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” God brings encouragement to us so that together we may glorify Him. So how might we define encouragement as it pertains to our horizontal relationships?