In elementary school, children would often say—-
“Sticks and stones may hurt my bones, but words will never hurt me.”
Usually the message would be shouted in the heat of the moment in response to a verbal assault by a schoolmate. Can’t you just picture that child with their hands on the hips and head swaying? Truthfully, this statement couldn’t be much further from the truth. Words do hurt or cause anger, whether spoken or written.
Edify One Another
“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” Ephesians 4:29 NKJV
As Christians, God tells us to edify one another. To edify means to build up. We are to build each other up. To encourage each other in love. The church has become so much like the world. Even in the name of ‘humor’, so often hurtful words are said. Ephesians is written for believers. We are to live, not as the world lives, but to glorify God in all we say and do.
Gift of Encouragement
Years ago there was a dear sweet lady, Mrs. Vaudria Boyette, that was so faithful to the Lord. She had the strongest gift of encouragement. Every time I sang a special or taught in discipleship training, she would be such an encouragement to me. She never missed an opportunity to tell people what a blessing they were and thank them for their service to the Lord. I sure have missed her. Not everyone has the gift of encouragement, but I think if we all looked for the good in people, we wouldn’t have time to point out their failures.
Encourage and Comfort
“ Therefore comfort each other and edify one another.” I Thessalonians 5:11a NKJV
One of the reasons for gathering as believers is so that we can encourage and comfort one another. Being isolated from others does not allow us that opportunity.
What we say or, I might add during this modern time, write in comments or posts is so important. Always try to be encouraging. It is okay to say nothing if you have nothing positive to say.
Practice Real Love
Below are a couple of verses that speak volumes.
“Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk. Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:31-32 MSG
“My dear children, let’s not just talk about love; let’s practice real love. This is the only way we’ll know we’re living truly, living in God’s reality. It’s also the way to shut down debilitating self-criticism, even when there is something to it. For God is greater than our worried hearts and knows more about us than we do ourselves.” 1 John 3:18-20 MSG
Practice real love – wow! It does take practice and self discipline to always show true love and speak words of encouragement. This week look for ways to encourage one another. Be positive and show real love.
https://youtu.be/qLn5r4aCz8s Toby Mac Speak Life
Paula Wallace
This week we start our 5th year with treadingwatertiljesuscomes.com
This is our 2nd Anniversary post. We are steadily adding followers. We thank you and appreciate your encouraging words.
