Hurtful Words #95

1 Corinthians 14:12,26 So also you, since you are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek to abound for the edification of the church. 26 What is the outcome then, brethren? When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. (NAS)

Ephesians 4:29 Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, that it may give grace to those who hear. (NAS)

Ever been hurt by a word from a friend, teacher, parent, relative, coach or another important person in your life? It has been said that for every negative word spoken that it takes seventeen positive ones to undo the damage. You have maybe been the recipient of such discouragement or maybe you were the one who let those hurtful words flow from your lips.

The Bible is very clear that words that you utter should be to edify. The word means to build up. In the use of spiritual gifts within the church setting it is possible to destroy or to edify one another. Paul encourages uplifting one another with the use of spiritual gifts. All things are to be done for edification. Words should be good for building up one another and the need of the moment.

The result is that words that edify give grace to those who hear. Why not be a committed to building up other believers and say words that edify and use your spiritual gifts to build up one another?

I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ. May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.

______________________________Today's personal note from Dennis

Greetings from the Ozarks!

Sandy and I are still in MO and will be another few days before heading back home to Tempe. We have had a great time seeing family and friends. We head to Branson tonight to see a show.
God continues to give me strength and stamina. PTL.

I hope God will give you a blessing of having someone say something to you today to edify you. You are so special to me and Sandy. Thanks for loving us. We do love you. Let us hear how you are doing.

PS Picture is me writing The Encourager in a campground on the Osage River just below Bagnell Dam. The water behind me is a small pond.