Manna for Your Morning

For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. — 1 Thessalonians 5:9-11 (NLT) The life of believers is not about competition. We are all one in Christ and on the same team. May we never compare our lives or ourselves with another person. But continually encourage one another every day, as long as it is called “Today”... (See Hebrews 3:13 AMP). Instead of trying to tear each other down, let us build each other up. See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to all people. (1 Thessalonians 5:15 NLT)

So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. … let us not criticize one another anymore, but rather determine this—not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block or a source of temptation in another believer’s way. — Romans 14:12-13 (AMP) ...for the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking [what one likes], but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. (Romans 14:17 AMP) So then, let us pursue [with enthusiasm] the things which make for peace and the building up of one another [things which lead to spiritual growth]. (Romans 14:19 AMP) So encourage each other and build each other up... (See 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NLT) Do not let unwholesome [foul, profane, worthless, vulgar] words ever come out of your mouth, but only such speech as is good for building up others, according to the need and the occasion, so that it will be a blessing to those who hear [you speak]. (Ephesians 4:29 AMP) Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just...

But you, dear friends, carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God’s love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life! — Jude 20-21 (MSG) The Passion Translation says: “…constantly and progressively build yourselves up on the foundation of your most holy faith by praying every moment in the Spirit.” (Jude 20) We should always pray and never give up, or lose heart. (See Luke 18:1-3) And let us keep ourselves in the love of God, receiving His love and allowing it to flow through us and onto others. Not only loving people, but also loving God with all of our heart, mind, and soul. May mercy and peace and love be multiplied to you [filling your heart with the spiritual well-being and serenity experienced by those who walk closely with God].  — Jude 2 (AMP)

By an act of faith, Isaac reached into the future as he blessed Jacob and Esau. — Hebrews 11:20 (MSG) I beg to differ with the saying “Sticks & stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me.” Words are very powerful. A word out of your mouth may seem of no account, but it can accomplish nearly anything—or destroy it! With our words we carry the potential to bless or curse, build up or tear down, bring together or create division. Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit—you choose (Proverbs 18:21 MSG). Our words are like a bridge that creates the passageway from the present to the future. May we reach into the future with words of life and blessing. Let’s lift those who hear our words up and not drag them down or beat them up. Amen!

When the church at Jerusalem heard what had happened, they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he arrived and saw this evidence of God’s blessing, he was filled with joy, and he encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord . — Acts 11:22-23 (NLT) When the church in Jerusalem, heard that a large number of Gentiles had believed and turned to the Lord, they sent Barnabas to encourage them. Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith. And many people were brought to the Lord (Acts 11:24 NLT). We too should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord. (Romans 15:2 NLT). So let’s agree to use all our energy in getting along with each other. Help others with encouraging words; don’t drag them down by finding fault (Romans 14:19 MSG). Don't be part of the demolition, tear down crew. Instead encourage and build each other up. Amen.