Build One Another Up

Build One Another Up

Encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.

We’d left the gathering, and I could tell Kyle was upset. When I reached across the dash of the car for his arm and asked what was wrong, he gave me a pained expression.

“I really didn’t like it when you made that offhand joke about me,” he stated.

“I am so sorry,” I replied. “I was only teasing. I would never have said it if I knew it would hurt your feelings. Please forgive me.”

He nodded acknowledgment and gave me a little smile.

This type of misunderstanding, although not a common occurrence in our relationship, is one that we try to resolve quickly. Kyle and I, since we first started dating, have had mutual respect for one another and an understanding that we would never intentionally make fun of, belittle, or hurt the other person. We’ve seen too many couples use their words to cut one another down, and we determined early on that we would always use our words to build one another up. Although we don’t do it perfectly, it’s a promise we still hold to today. Of course, we’ve definitely said and done hurtful things to one another, but we always believe the other person did not do so intentionally. And when it does happen, apologies flow quickly and easily between us.

We’ve all seen people use sarcasm and humor to cut one another down. Or we’ve known people who appear to always be competing with those they’re in relationships with, whether at work, in their families, or even among friends. But Scripture tells us over and over again that we are to love one another well, giving clear direction on how to do so. For example, we should use our words to encourage and strengthen others. If we do this consistently (not that we do it perfectly!), we can create and maintain deep and lasting relationships with those around us.

— Kendra

— Today’s Act of Friendship —

Send an encouraging text to a friend, building her up in a specific area of her life.