Some Christians live so much in the heavenlies that they are unaware of what is happening around them. They end up coming down to earth with a bump. We have to face reality. Spiritually our life is in Heaven but physically we are on Earth. See Proverbs 25:11-12. Are our words building people up or tearing them down?

1. Words of endearment (vs. 1)

We need to build relationships. Paul had deep relationships. He was strong but felt love for others in the church. Churches are supposed to be welcome places. Do you feel welcome in your church? We all need to love and to be loved. We need to express this love by encouraging one another. It is too easy to criticise. It is more difficult to build things up. Too often we prefer to use the rod than give an apple.

2. Words of encouragement (vs. 2-3)

To give constructive criticism you need to build a relationship first. There were two ladies in the church who needed to get their act together. If you have problems with someone then don’t grumble but go to the person. These women were crucial to the team. The problem needed to be sorted out. It seems to be a personality problem. You cannot always agree things. Too many Christians have a chip on their shoulder or bitterness. We all struggle with relationships. Yet conflict is there for a purpose. A quarrelling church is not a church at all. Even Paul had disagreements with Mark and Peter but they resolved things.

3. Words of enrichment (vs. 4)

We are to rejoice in the Lord always. To rejoice means to have joy. Are you a Christian? Where has all your joy gone? What is your relationship with the Holy Spirit? Are you filled with the Spirit or are you quenching the Spirit. Hard times come to prove your faith is genuine – or not.

The tongue can easily build a relationship and tear it back down. Please be careful of what you say and use words of endearment, encouragement and enrichment to all you meet.

Categories: Philippians