1 Thessalonians 5:8-11 (NKJV)
8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.
11 Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.
Do you build others up or tear them down? Our culture thinks it is cool to denigrate one another. It is funny to be sarcastic. Many of us have this passive aggressive thing going on. It is not good. Many people walk around barely getting by feeling poorly about themselves. Each negative comment is another jolt. Why don’t we build each other up instead?
This passage speaks about putting on faith and love. We could all use a little more love. Shouldn’t our speech be glorifying to God and edifying to all those who hear it? I know many people who still struggle with the after effects of being told they are worthless and would never amount to anything. What if you told a child you are a winner? You can do anything to which you put your mind. There is nothing that can stop you! Would that child attempt great things?
We had a foster child who would say they could not do things and then get frustrated and angry. I was aware of this issue before they came to visit. When we got to a point of frustration, I asked if he had assembled a similar toy. He said he had done it with my help. With that in mind, I asked if he thought I would help him again and he said yes. My conclusion was that you can do this then with my help and I am willing to help. I asked him to stop saying “I cannot do this”. Instead, ask for help and I will be there. That is the model our Heavenly Father wants us to follow.
Your heavenly Father is the same only better. In fact, He is the best at helping because His help teaches us His ways which are always a blessing to all. He is always willing to help if you will just ask. It doesn’t need to be a fancy prayer. “Help me Jesus” will do. God loves you so much, He longs to come by your side. Ask Him! He won’t disappoint. He will send someone to your aid.
Just a few kind words can change everything. Many people have done amazing things because someone encouraged them. They have moved forward because someone said “I know you can do this”! Be that person. Speak words of encouragement! Speak words of praise! Speak blessings into the lives of the people around you and watch them blossom into the destiny God created for them. It will bless you as well.
Lord, help us to build up rather than tear down! Help us to use our words to bless people and encourage them to do great things in Your Name.