There is so much division and negativity in our country these days. It’s discouraging hearing people tear others apart, and it’s so easy to play into that nonsense. It’s easy to get swept up in what everyone else is doing instead of standing out and doing something counter-cultural.
Sometimes it’s hard to take the time to be intentional about being encouraging. After all, it’s much easier to tear down than build up. Just watch toddlers play together. What takes an afternoon to build can be destroyed with one sweep of the arm.
In an instant, our words can destroy those around us.
“Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” (Proverbs 12:18 NIV)
When we are reckless with our words, they bring destruction. But when we are wise, our words can heal.
Be the person who brings healing.
Be the person who invests in the lives of others.
Be the person who is intentional about building others up.
Be the person who takes the time to care.
Be the person who shows Jesus to those who are hurting.
Be the person who encourages.
Be that person.
“Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” (Proverbs 16:24 NIV)
Lord, thank you for the ability to communicate with others. In this day and age, it’s so easy to say whatever we want, but Lord, that is not always pleasing to you. Too often, we use our words to destroy those around us. We are careless with the words we say and post on social media. Many of the things that come out of our mouths are not pleasing to you. Please forgive us for being so foolish. Lord, we ask for the wisdom to use our words to bring healing, not destruction. Help us know when to speak and when to hold our tongue, and we ask that you give us the right words to encourage those who are hurting. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Heart to Heart 
Love this encouragement to be the person that brings love and grace and peace!
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Thanks for reading, Rebecca. I’m glad it could encourage you.
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Such good reminders – thank you!
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Thanks for reading, Sharon.
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Tynea, this is true and timely. Love the scripture you included, “Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” (Proverbs 12:18 NIV) The tongue of the wise brings healing. We really have a huge responsibility! I love how you ended your blog with a prayer. You know many people want to talk to God, but just don’t know how. Thank you for your example and for being a light..
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Thanks for reading, Jilly. Your kind words encouraged my heart. We certainly need the wisdom to use our words wisely, and I’m so glad God gives wisdom generously to all who ask.
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This topic has been on my heart lately too. Thank you for this on point encouragement. I love Psalm 39:1 in the TPT: “Here’s my life motto, the truth I live by: I will guard my ways for all my days. I will speak only what is right, guarding what I speak.”
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Thanks for reading, and thanks for sharing that encouraging verse. May we all remember to guard our ways and speak what is right.
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