13. How can Christians today encourage fellow worshippers?

¹³ How we can benefit. As Christians, we too make known God’s will by proclaiming what is found in his Word, the Bible. Another way we do so is by using words that build up and encourage our fellow worshippers. (1 Cor. 14:3) Elders need to be especially aware of the need to “speak consolingly” to their brothers and sisters, even those who might be agitated or inclined to engage in “wild talk.”​—1 Thess. 5:14; Job 6:3.

14-15. Illustrate how an elder can imitate Elihu when giving counsel.

¹⁴ Imagine this situation. An elder learns that a sister in his congregation is feeling depressed. Commendably, he and another brother visit her to try to provide encouragement. During the visit, the sister expresses negative emotions. She mentions that although she is attending meetings and going out in the ministry, she feels little joy. How will the brother taking the lead react?

¹⁵ First, he will likely try to learn the underlying reasons for the sister’s pain. To accomplish that, he will have to listen patiently. Does she feel unworthy of God’s love? Are the “anxieties of life” breaking her spirit? (Luke 21:34) Second, the elder will look for opportunities to commend the sister. She is, after all, still attending meetings and sharing in the ministry despite feeling depressed. And third, once the elder understands the situation and what is causing the sister to feel discouraged, he will use the Bible to build up her confidence in God’s love for her.​—Gal. 2:20.