Though we saw yesterday that words can wound, the more powerful and overcoming truth is that they can heal! In fact, so important are affirmations and positive exhortations in God’s eyes that the Greek term for encouragement — parakleo — is used at least 100 times in the New Testament. Everyone needs to be reminded of who they are in Jesus, even those who don’t know Him yet, and giving verbal utterance to His heart is the best way to do it. Just as the aroma of something sweet has the potential to overpower the less pleasant smells around it, so uplifting speech can overcome the grievous stench of cutting words. That said, encouragement has a purpose far deeper than making a person feel good in the moment. Though compliments and confidence-building are a gift to anyone (and should be done frequently), the true power of Biblical exhortation is that it cultivates something in someone that doesn’t exist yet. Spurring others on is what happens when we employ the power of the tongue to do God’s work, and committing to a lifestyle of soul-building means we’re devoted to saying what people need to hear, when they need to hear it, even if it’s not what they want to hear. While being an advocate in this manner requires effort, playing a part in someone’s eternal story is far more valuable than anything money can buy!

My friend, you are an encourager, and your words have the power to build and heal! While many have been wounded by harsh and careless labels, you are empowered by God to shine light on people’s potential. The Lord wants to use you to water divine dreams buried deep within the souls of others so they can bring His Kingdom to earth in powerful ways. Use your tongue to challenge, exhort, and bless, and you will awaken your Savior’s presence in human hearts so they can be forever changed.