The power to kill

It doesn't take a loaded gun, knife, rope, or our fists. The power to kill can simply come from our words to others. In one brief moment we can destroy someones life with the words we can use. We can tare down, destroy, and leave a wake of carnage that no amount of explosive can provide. Words are deadly weapons that we think about more after we let them fly than we do before we open our mouths. I have learned this truth several times, the hard way, over the years. But our words don't have to be these things.

The opposite is true as well. Our words can actually be a bit of heaven here on earth for people. They can lift people up, give confidence, and provide a sense of value and self worth like nothing else. We can build someone up like a mason adding the next layer of brick to a building. We can strengthen someones life like the steel worker adding another brace for support. Each of us has the ability to grow people by affirming their value and worth. With the simple concept of appreciation we can raise a persons value. When we celebrate them and give thanks for them, when we point out the good things we see them doing, all these things add value to their life.

Let's commit to encouragement. Too often, at least in my own life, it is so easy to point out people's faults and weaknesses. Instead, what would it look like if we decided that we were going to look for the best in people and point it out when we see them doing good, or making a difference, or helping someone grow? It is a decision and a choice on our part. It takes a lot of work and strong focus. Mainly though, it takes a heart for people and a belief that in God's eyes and our own, that all people matter. Do you value other people as much as you should? If you are like me it is not that we intentionally look past others we are just simply too caught up in our own lives to notice others. When we grow in Christ that means we are also growing in the things that Christ is interested in. You will discover that people, and their value and worth are at the center of what Jesus focuses on. He desires that we have that same focus. Let's be encourager's together. In community with you, Your Dreaming Pastor