John Maxwell says encouragement is _________ for the soul.

• A. oxygen
• B. water
• C. fuel
• D. energy

Answer: (A)

Encouragement acts as a life-sustaining element for the soul, just like oxygen sustains living organisms. In biology, oxygen is essential for cellular respiration, allowing the body to produce the energy needed for all activities and to stay active and resilient. When someone is encouraged, they gain emotional energy, confidence, and motivation to persevere through challenges and continue growing in sport and life.

Water is vital for hydration and many bodily processes, but it doesn’t capture the idea of keeping the inner life energized in the same direct way as oxygen does. Fuel suggests something consumed to power movement, which implies a finite source and a machine-like mindset, not the universal, life-sustaining role oxygen plays for all living beings. Energy is close in spirit, since encouragement provides energy, but oxygen better conveys the notion of a fundamental, ongoing sustenance of the soul.