Words That Build Up, Not Tear Down / Sticks and Stones and Words

Weekend Service for September 14Scripture Readings: Ephesians 4:29Words are powerful tools, capable of building up or tearing down those around us. Just as a carpenter selects the right tool for each job, we are called to choose our words with intention and care, especially within our families and communities. The right words, spoken at the right time, can bring life, encouragement, and healing, while careless or harsh words can cause deep harm. Our daily interactions offer countless opportunities to use our words to strengthen, support, and uplift others.Drawing from 1 Thessalonians 5, we are reminded to honor and respect those who lead, to encourage the timid, care for the weak, and be patient with everyone. This is not a call to blind positivity or empty flattery, but to honest, loving engagement that seeks the good of others. Sometimes, encouragement means speaking truth that is hard to hear, but always with the aim of building up rather than tearing down. We are also warned against repaying evil for evil, and instead urged to do good to all people, maintaining a spirit of joy, prayer, and gratitude.The analogy of coaching young football teams illustrates how easy it is to focus on mistakes and shortcomings, but how much more powerful it is to call out potential and celebrate growth. Just as Jesus renamed Simon to Peter, speaking destiny and strength into his life, we too are invited to speak words that call forth the best in others, even when they have not yet lived up to it. Encouragement is not just a nice gesture; it is the fuel that helps us and those around us persevere through challenges and become who God intends us to be.In a world filled with negativity and division, especially visible in online spaces, our calling is to be people who build up, who see the good, and who point others to Christ. Our words can be sweet like honey, bringing health and hope. Even when life is hard and circumstances are painful, we can choose to be encouragers, united in Christ, shining His light in the darkness.[00:00] Welcome[00:46] The Power of Words in Daily Life[01:35] Words as Tools: Building or Demolishing[03:43] Choosing Tools for Building Up[05:04] Paul’s Final Advice in 1 Thessalonians 5[06:42] Living Out Christ’s Character[08:22] Honest Encouragement and Accountability[09:43] Patience and Growth in Others[10:40] Navigating Negativity and Division[12:51] The Sweetness of Kind Words[14:25] Lessons from Coaching and Encouragement[17:03] The True Purpose of Building Up[19:19] The Need for Encouragement in Hard Times[20:46] Life-Giving Words as Fuel[24:16] Speaking Potential and Destiny[25:54] United in Christ to Encourage[27:06] Prayer for Strength and Unity