Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
1 Thessalonians 5: 11
Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you. Ephesians 4:29
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Have you ever been in needs of comfort and someone you trusted uses the opportunity to hurt you? Even those we love and claim to love us fail us miserably at times. People often try to coerce us in order to get what they want from us. It is a dangerous and hurtful form of brainwashing. People assume if they hurt you enough then you would not be strong enough to do what is right and to follow God's lead. Consequently, easier to manipulate. Just recently I experienced ridicule and mockery of the worst kind from an unlikely source. It was so powerful that uncontrollable tears came down my face instantly. I did not see it coming. I was devastated and I had to turn my telephone off and run to God for comfort. The people who harm us are not always our enemies. They can also be loved ones. We have to be wise when it comes to seeking counsel. "Do not speak to a fool, for he will scorn the wisdom of your words." Proverbs 23:9
People hurt each other on purpose. You have to be careful who you listen to and the Bible urges us not to listen to what people have to say. Do not let them hurt you with words. Do not pay attention to every word people say, or you may hear your servant cursing you—for you know in your heart that many times you yourself have cursed others. (Ecclesiastes 7:21-22 NIV)
God has called the Christian to be an encourager:
“Encourage one another and build each other up.” (1 Thess. 5:11)
“Let us encourage one another…” (Heb. 10:25)
“Encourage one another daily…” (Heb. 3:13)
Naturally, on occasions we do just the opposite. We don't build up but we tear down. We must understand that each time we encourage someone, it may change the course of his/her life. When someone comes to you in tears do not kick him while down. Use the the opportunity to encourage him, wipe the tears, and give him hope. As ambassador of Jesus Christ it is our job.
Dear friend, the Word of God commands us to encourage each other. By being someone who encourages, you can build people's self-worth. Attacking and tearing down might be easy but it is not godly and God does not take any pleasure in hurting anyone. The Bible warns not to spend time criticizing each other, running each other down; looking for the dirt marks, weak spots in each other's lives. There's enough of that in the world already. without Christians beating on each other, too. What you and I need now is enduring love, patience, kindness as well as builders and not destroyers. We shouldn't laugh at people's weakness. We must remember that mockery is not of God. You and I must show the world the love of God by treating one and other with kindness. The Bible speaks of gentleness. Whatever form it takes, use encouragement that builds up people rather than tearing them down. It should be our heart's desire.
Listen, be responsible for a smile and not a tear. Be an encourager! Speak truth, life, health and prosperity over each other. Be a player in someone's restoration and not destruction! Be like like Christ and be blessed!
Praise the Lord!
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