Exhortation: Cheering Each Other On God's Way!

Exhortation: Cheering Each Other On God's Way!

Hey there, friend!
Welcome to Kids Character, where every month we explore one amazing spiritual gift from God—and discover how it shows up in everyday life! This month, we’re learning all about the wonderful gift of Exhortation (that’s a big word, but don’t worry—we’ll explain it!).

Let’s jump in and learn how we can cheer others on, speak kindly, and help people grow God’s way.

What Is Exhortation?

Exhortation is a special spiritual gift. It means encouraging others with love and truth. That might sound like a grown-up word, but here’s the simple version:

Exhortation means you cheer people on to do good things and remind them that God is with them!

It’s like when your friend is trying something hard—like tying their shoes or sharing their toys—and you say, “You can do it!” or “God loves you!”

That’s exhortation in action!

Why Is Exhortation Important for Kids?

God gives gifts to kids, too! Even if you're only three, four, five, six, or seven, you can use the gift of exhortation every day.

Here’s why it’s important:

• It lifts people up when they’re feeling sad or afraid.

• It helps friends make good choices.

• It reminds us of God’s truth and love.

Jesus was the best encourager. He always told the truth with love. And guess what? When you encourage others, you're being just like Him!

7 Character Traits That Shine Through Exhortation

Each month at Kids Character, we focus on a spiritual gift and the 7 godly character traits that grow from it. Here’s what exhortation looks like in real life:1. Love

You care for others and want what’s best for them.

“I’m proud of you for telling the truth!” That’s loving encouragement.

2. Wisdom

You speak truth, not just nice words. You remind friends what God says.

“Even when we’re scared, we can pray. God is near.”

3. Boldness

You say what’s right—even when it's hard.

“Let’s not fight. Let’s ask for help and forgive.”

4. Kindness

You use gentle words and actions to help others feel better.

“It’s okay to try again. I’ll help you!”

5. Faithfulness

You keep showing up. You don’t give up on your friends.

“I’ll always be your friend, no matter what.”

6. Joy

You bring God’s joy when things are tough.

“God’s got a good plan! Let’s dance and smile!”

7. Patience

You wait, listen, and help others grow step by step.

“It’s okay if it takes time. You’re doing great.”

Exhortation in Action: Tugboat Tom and Sailboat Sam

Want to read a fun story about exhortation?
Check out our cheerful tale:
"Tugboat Tom and Sailboat Sam" – A Story About Cheering Others On

In the story, Tugboat Tom sees his friend Sam struggling on the waves. Instead of sailing by, he cheers him on, gently guides him, and reminds him he’s not alone. That’s exhortation!

Ways to Practice Exhortation This Week

You might be thinking, "But I’m just a kid!" That’s perfect! Kids are awesome encouragers.

Here are 5 simple ways you can use exhortation this week:

1. Say something kind to your brother, sister, or friend.

2. Draw a picture with a Bible verse like Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ!”

3. Sing a happy song when someone is sad.

4. Write a note or card that says “Jesus loves you!”

5. Pray for a friend and tell them you did!

What Grown-Ups Can Do: Building Encouraging Environments

Dear parents, teachers, and caregivers:
The gift of exhortation blossoms when children are surrounded by life-giving language, Scripture, and consistent support.

Here are a few ways to foster this:

• Model biblical encouragement in your words.

• Read aloud stories with characters who overcome through truth.

• Use music, memory verses, and crafts to reinforce character traits.

• Explore the full Kids Character Monthly Curriculum to keep learning together.

For an in-depth breakdown of exhortation in Scripture, visit:
🔗 GotQuestions.org: What is the gift of exhortation?
🔗 BibleStudyTools.com – Romans 12 Spiritual Gifts

Fun Activities to Build the Gift of Exhortation]

Craft Corner – Make an “Encouragement Jar”!
Write or draw happy notes to keep inside. Each morning, pull one out and share it with someone.

Memory Verse Challenge

“Encourage one another and build each other up.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Say it each morning. Then look for someone to build up that day!

Sing-Along Time!
Try songs like “This Little Light of Mine” or “I’ve Got the Joy Down in My Heart”—these remind us that God's love is worth sharing out loud!

Alt Text for Blog Images]

1. Image: Kids hugging with big smiles.
   Alt Text: “Young children showing love and exhortation by hugging.”

2. Image: A cartoon tugboat cheering on a sailboat in the waves.
   Alt Text: “Tugboat Tom encouraging Sailboat Sam on the water.”

3. Image: Child pointing to a Bible verse on the wall.
   Alt Text: “Child practicing exhortation by reading a Bible verse.”

Key Takeaways: What Did We Learn About Exhortation?]

✅ Exhortation means encouraging others with truth and love
✅ It shows up in 7 character traits: love, wisdom, boldness, kindness, faithfulness, joy, and patience
✅ Jesus encouraged people all the time, and we can too!
✅ Kids can use this gift every day through kind words, songs, drawings, prayers, and hugs
✅ Parents can help by building a home filled with Scripture and encouragement

Want to Learn More? Join the Kids Character Family!]

We’d love to stay in touch with you and your family!
Check out more fun stories and activities:

• Monthly Character Trait Activities

• Bible Stories That Teach Character

• Teaching Kids Spiritual Gifts Simply

📞 Contact Us!

We’d love to hear how your little encouragers are growing.

📬 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.kidscharacter.org

Let’s grow together—one encouraging word at a time! 🌱💬