“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up…” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

Go out of your way to say, “Way to go!”

You’re right. Seems a bit gimmicky, doesn’t it? Perhaps. But hear me out.

Jesus often taught about the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God is where and when God rules as King with his grace and truth. With the power and peace of Christ he is renovating his creation.

One of the characteristics of the kingdom is that it is often surprising. God works in ways we don’t always expect.

For example, it belongs to little children (Luke 18:16). The last will be first and the first will be last (Matthew 19:30). It begins small like a mustard seed (Matthew 13:32). Power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). God chose what is weak in the world to shame the wise (1 Corinthians 1:27). In death there is life (1 Corinthians 15).

In the kingdom of God things that seem small or insignificant in the eyes of the world—and even things that seem like a waste of time—are actually very meaningful and powerful.

Including the ways we bless others with our words.

People are struggling. More than you realize. Many put on a brave face. And yes, a lot of people are fine. But many aren’t. 

Since the kingdom of God is so important, we wonder whether we can truly make any meaningful contribution. But that’s thinking by the world’s standards, not God’s.

Words matter. Bad ones hurt. Good ones help.

Is there one person you can encourage today either in person, on the phone, or with a text, email or DM?

Never underestimate what God can do with the utterances that come from his people.

Go out of your way to say, “Way to go.”

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Notes:

–“If we can glorify God in heaven why on earth are were here on earth?” This was a question that was asked for a recent Q and A Forum. I provide an answer in this episode of ‘The Pulse Podcast with Matthew Ruttan.’ You can subscribe wherever you enjoy podcasts or click here.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.