Tag Archives: building others up

Raising the Value of the People in Your Life

Posted on May 14, 2017 by expressyourself4him

The competitor in me has a tendency to encourage a spirit of perfectionism to reign within me.  The byproduct of this bad habit results in negativity.  Critical words fly out of my mouth without thinking of the impact they have on others.  Unfortunately, my remarks often devalue individuals, negatively influencing people I care about.

Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving, Ephesians 5:4.

Thus, when I heard a sermon last Sunday about raising the value of the people in your life, conviction rained upon me.  Like a random shower in the middle of a sunny day, guilt, remorse and sorrow dripped upon my soul.  Similar to the apostle Paul in Romans 7, I find myself  doing that which that I hate.  This message was a subtle reminder that I am going down the wrong path in life, in desperate need of taking an about face.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen, Ephesians 4:29.

The Bible encourages individuals to use affirmations to raise the value of the people in your life.  Instead of dwelling on the negative, turn your attention toward which that will build up family, friends and neighbors.  As hard as it may be, don’t allow yourself be consumed with a desire to be in control.  Rather, let go and let God begin to transform you so that kinds words may begin to raise the value of the people in your life.

by Jay Mankus

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A Rare Jewel

Posted on December 13, 2016 by expressyourself4him

In a November 2015 Forbes article, the red diamond was the most expensive jewel, worth one million dollars per carat.  Meanwhile, True Facet claims the rarest jewel when its available is jadeite, costing more than three million dollars per carat.  Yet, one of the most famous jewels is the Hope Diamond due to a curse which followed those who possessed it resulting in several mysterious deaths.

Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel, Proverbs 20:15.

While contemplating his own collection of wealth, King Solomon overlooked one rare jewel.  This unusual site involves individuals who provide encouraging and positive words.  These nuggets within conversations often uplift those who hear it.  Based upon the context of the passage above, it appears that even in the days of the Old Testament negative tones filled the local marketplaces.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen, Ephesians 4:29.

Depending upon your current environment at home, school or work, speaking words of knowledge can be difficult.  Overcoming waves of pessimism is a tough task, taking many under its current with each crashing remark.  In view of this climate, the apostle Paul urges his readers to rise above today’s culture of criticism.  Instead of joining the crowd to jump on the pile, change your tune by expressing beneficial comments.  In the end, you will avoid grieving the Holy Spirit by seeking to become a rare jewel with holy lips.

by Jay Mankus

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That a Boy!

Posted on May 11, 2016 by expressyourself4him

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As the culture changes, so does the vocabulary.  Unfortunately, as a sense of loyalty diminishes, human beings are being discarded by employers, often finding a cheaper replacement.  I found out the hard way during my last year as a high school teacher.  In this climate, instead of hearing encouraging words like “that a boy,” criticism follows revealing a lack of appreciation.

With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it, 1 Peter 5:12.

Trying to stay positive in these conditions can be difficult.  However, after reading a letter from the disciple Peter, I am reminded of the importance to use uplifting words.  Since most communications at a typical work place tends to be when you make a mistake, what would happen if people received a compliment once a week.  While each individual is different, most need to hear “that a boy or way to go” every so often to make sure they feel appreciated.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen, Ephesians 4:29.

Although I have my moments of negativity, these passages of the Bible bring me back to where I need to be.  Thus, despite how I feel, its vital to guard my mouth to avoid being part of the problem.  In view of this, don’t be afraid to be a voice of reason, building up those around you.  By exercising this principle, you will rejuvenate others who yearn to hear, “that a boy!”

by Jay Mankus

 

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