“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” -1 Peter 4:8

When you see the worst in people, watch what happens. If you call someone you love clumsy, just watch as they start being more clumsy with things. If you call someone in your life dumb, just watch as they can’t remember basic things.

On the other hand, if you say someone is very kind or charitable or call someone generous, just watch how they continue to give more. What you see in others very often becomes a part of their identity. People need you to see the best in them.

We all have enough people that see the worst, telling us we’re stupid, or sinful, or light on potential, or lazy. We don’t need one more negative person in our lives. We need encouragers in our lives that say, “I believe in you, and God sees the best in you. I can’t wait to see your potential and the great things you’ll do with your life.” When you see the best in people, you draw the best out of them.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, when I am discouraged by some negative input I have received, I turn to you for your truth about who I truly am. May I be an encourager to others just as you are to me. Amen.

REFLECTION: Think of something negative someone has said about you. Now, what do you believe that God is saying to you in response?