“Encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Heb. 10:25). “If you’re always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another” (Gal. 5:15). “Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.” (Luke 6:28). “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Prov. 18:21). “Whatever is in your heart determines what you say” (Matt. 12:34).
Lord Jesus, it’s surprising, but it’s right there in the text. As we long and wait for your second coming, the one thing that should mark our use of words is encouragement.
Not flattery, which is manipulation dressed up in party clothes. Not sarcasm, which is weaponized pain. Not denial, which is humming in a tornado. Not over-speak, which is a refusal to listen. Not calling down fire, which is a forgetting of the Gospel, but calling down grace.
Encouragers build each other up and catch each other “doing it right.” Even when speaking difficult words in a conflict, or confronting foolishness, the motivation is mercy, the fuel is grace, and the hope is healing (Gal. 6:1-2). This seems naïve, reserved for heaven, and emotionally unrealistic, Jesus. How is it even partially possible?
Only by having our hearts filled with you—only by setting our mind, will, and affections on things above (Col. 3:1-4). Jesus, you only speak life to us. You never flatter or condemn us; you only encourage and build us up—even when you convict and discipline us. Thank you.
Jesus help us “see the Day approaching,” with greater clarity, joy, and hope than ever. Grant us quick repentances when we under-believe the Gospel, and over-believe our hurt, fear, and anger. We want to speak life. So Very Amen.