Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
The word corrupt in the Bible verse above comes from a Greek word meaning to tear down, or cause to decay. The word also means harmful, worthless, rotten, or bad. It other words, we should be careful with our words. In that we are to take responsibility with what we say and how we say it, and make sure it’s not harmful. Ephesians 4:29 also says we are to use words that build up others. Those are words that encourage, help, affirm, uphold, are supportive, and breathe hope into others. Now, this not tearing down and building up is not only in speech, but should also be in actions. The things we do should build up and not tear down, contribute not counteract, help not hinder, and enhance not diminish.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
A good question to ask when we leave an interaction with someone or involvement in something, is did we enhance or depreciate the experience? The truth is, we were designed by God to help the encounters we have to thrive and be even just a little bit better. We can make a compliment, affirm, say kind words, or even just smile when we engage others. If we are part of an activity, we can find a way to participate, help, and contribute. Even in going to the grocery store, we can put the cart back, help bag our own groceries, and again, smile.
See, the truth is we need each other.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
We live in a world where we think too much about what we can get. We can tend to say, “What’s in it for me?” Why not say, “How can I help enhance this moment?” Wow, our world would be such a better place if we did more building up and not tearing down. How could you build up and not tear down in one of your interactions or moments today?
Attending church can be a place where we are built up, and also a place we can build up others. If you do not already have a church you attend, we would like to invite you to view or visit Neighborhood Church. We are a fun, welcoming church and would love for you to connect with us! Our website has all the information you need for times and locations of all our Sunday gatherings. You can also find us online at neighborhoodchurch.com. As well, if you would like to view any of our past worship gatherings or videos, visit our YouTube channel, or just search Neighborhood Church Cypress or Neighborhood Church Los Alamitos on their YouTube site.
Seeking more ways to enhance the moments along with you,
Messages From Mike 
