Proverbs 12:25. Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.

Proverbs 18:21 Death and Life is in the power of the tongue…

You can use a hammer in a couple of different ways. Primarily we use it for building something, or putting together an object. Alternatively, we can use it to pull things apart or break ice down.

God likewise, has given us a spiritual hammer. That hammer is our power of words. With it we build each other up and with it we tear each other down. Sometimes even ourselves down. It is time to stop using our hammer to break down a person but let us start using it to build up.

How do we use it too build up? You build others up by finding what is good in them and complementing them for it. A small word of encouragement can often make someone’s day.

Criticism on the other hand tears others down; compliments build them up. Too many of us are quick to tear down but not build up. Let the conclusion be our challenge for this week. Find a different person each day to build up their spirit. Rather it is through praying for them, complementing them, or a word of encouragement.

Rejoice. Change your ways. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Cor. 13:11.