Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
–1 Thessalonians 5:11
I just love when others encourage me. Isn’t it great to be around someone whose words are encouraging and edifying? Someone who makes you feel good because of their words that build you up and bring you grace just when you need it?
One of the most attractive and healing personalities in the world is an individual who can spread grace, and blessing, and build up others with encouraging words. You see, anybody can tear down with destructive words, but God’s people should build up!
I was in line at a grocery store one time and there was a lady there with several small children. I guess those children had gotten the best of her because she got so angry with them. She lit into those kids with her words, just damaging them and cursing them. And I thought, “Those little children are growing up with words that tear down instead of build up!”
With your children, with your spouse, or with anyone, use words that encourage. Even when you have a disagreement, you can disagree agreeably. Don’t let your emotions control your reactions, but be intent on showing restorative grace to others just as God shows it to you!
EVEN IN TIMES OF DISAGREEMENT, SHOW GRACE AND ENCOURAGE OTHERS BECAUSE YOUR GOAL SHOULD ALWAYS BE RESTORATION INSTEAD OF CONDEMNATION.
