“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”
 

Romans 14:19 (NIV)

Hey everyone, it’s Dan here. You know, in both my personal and professional life, I’ve learned that the words we choose can make a world of difference. Encouraging language doesn’t just uplift individuals—it transforms entire environments, fostering peace and mutual growth.

Romans 14:19 reminds us, “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” This verse calls us to actively seek ways to build each other up, promoting harmony and strengthening our communities.

I’ve seen this firsthand in my own family and business. Whether I’m working with my team at Eclipse DOT or spending time with my family, the way we communicate matters. When we use words of encouragement and support, we create an atmosphere where everyone feels valued and motivated.

For example, I remember a time when one of my kids was struggling with a challenging school project. Instead of focusing on what wasn’t working, I made a conscious effort to highlight what they were doing well and offered gentle guidance on how to improve. The result? They felt more confident and were able to tackle the project with renewed energy and enthusiasm. This experience reinforced for me the power of encouraging language in creating a supportive environment.

Similarly, in a work setting, I’ve seen how positive communication can turn around a tough situation. When team members feel appreciated and their efforts acknowledged, they are more likely to go the extra mile and collaborate effectively. It’s amazing how a simple “great job” or “thank you” can boost morale and foster a spirit of cooperation.

In our daily interactions, whether at home, work, or in our communities, we have countless opportunities to use our words to build others up. Encouraging language can diffuse tension, inspire confidence, and foster a sense of belonging. It’s about making a choice to speak life and positivity into the lives of those around us.

Consider how you feel when someone takes the time to offer you a sincere compliment or a word of encouragement. It’s uplifting, isn’t it? It can turn your entire day around and give you the strength to keep pushing forward. Now imagine the impact we can have if we all made a conscious effort to speak encouraging words to those we encounter every day.

In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and overlook the importance of positive communication. But as followers of Christ, we are called to be different. We are called to be the light in the darkness, the calm in the storm, and the voice of encouragement in a world that often leans toward negativity.

By making a deliberate effort to use our words for edification, we can create supportive environments where peace and mutual growth flourish. This doesn’t mean ignoring problems or avoiding tough conversations. It means approaching every interaction with a heart full of grace, seeking to build bridges and not walls.

So, let’s challenge ourselves to be mindful of our language. Let’s choose words that build up rather than tear down, that encourage rather than discourage, and that bring peace rather than conflict. By doing so, we not only follow the teachings of Romans 14:19 but also become instruments of God’s love and peace in the world.

Take Action Items

• Speak Positively: Make a conscious effort to use positive language in your interactions. Compliment others, acknowledge their efforts, and express appreciation.
• Practice Active Listening: Show that you value others by truly listening to them. This not only makes them feel heard but also helps you respond more thoughtfully and supportively.
• Encourage Growth: When giving feedback, focus on growth and improvement. Highlight strengths and offer constructive suggestions with kindness.
• Create Safe Spaces: Foster environments where people feel safe to express themselves without fear of judgment. Encourage open and honest communication.
• Celebrate Successes: Recognize and celebrate the achievements and milestones of those around you. This builds morale and reinforces positive behavior.
• Model Encouragement: Lead by example. Use encouraging language consistently and watch how it influences those around you.
• Pray for Guidance: Ask God to help you use your words to build up others and create supportive environments. Seek His wisdom in your communication.
• Reflect on Your Words: At the end of each day, reflect on how you’ve used your words. Were they encouraging? Consider how you can improve tomorrow.
• Be Patient and Forgiving: Understand that everyone has off days. Be patient and forgiving, offering encouragement even when others are struggling.
• Support Each Other: Actively look for ways to support and uplift those around you. Small acts of kindness and encouragement can have a big impact.