Scripture:

“Encourage one another and build up each other.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Thought for the day:

When I was a kid, comments on my complexion and thin physique governed my self-image. None of the things that I excelled were pertinent. Suffice to say, I have been on the receiving end of hateful words that tore into my psyche and brought tears to my eyes. Sadly, I have also been on the giving end of hateful words intent on tearing into another’s psyche.

In Psalm 64:3, David wrote that evildoers “sharpen their tongues like swords and aim cruel words like deadly arrows” (Ps. 64: 3).

There is power in our words… “The tongue has the power of life and death.” Craig Groeschel, in his book, Soul Detox: Clean Living in a Contaminated World, wrote:

“What you say can give life to you and to other people, or it can take life away.
Creative words create. Destructive words destroy.
Hurtful words crush. Helpful words build up.
Toxic words poison. Soothing words heal.
Faith-filled words bring life. Faithless words bring death.”

Words are powerful beyond imagination. Paul says in 1 Thessalonians 5:11 - “Encourage one another and build up each other.” In other words, “If you think something good, say it.” Groeschel continues with some sound advice: “The moment you think something good, bless someone you love with your positive words.”

You can never offer too much encouragement. You can never offer to much love.

Prayer for the day:

God of Glory, may my words bring encouragement to all who hear. Help me to freely offer positive conversation to all I encounter. Free me from bringing negativity into my exchanges with others. Amen.