"Edify"

We do not tear each other down,

But encourage all the way,

We always try to edify,

Fight negative each day.

‘Cause this old world can get you down,

Old devil won’t fight fair,

Reminding you of what you were,

Though you’re no longer there.

So catch somebody in the act,

Of doing something right,

Let ‘em know you notice so,

You make their burden light.

Thank your brother, sister, too,

Give honor where it’s due,

Speak the truth in love to them,

From the Spirit take your cue.

If somebody opens up,

And shares their fault with  you,

Make sure you keep their confidence,

Show that you’re tried and true.

Let loyalty and kindness reign,

O’er those who wear His brand,

And let our love prove we are His,

To all across our land.

“Let no unwholesome word proceed from you mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification…” (Ephesians 4:29, NAS)

The word “edification” means “to build up.” The clear meaning of the verse is that we should not say anything that is unproductive but only that which will help each other. Sometimes even prayer requests are shared in a gossipy way. When this happens to me I suggest we pray immediately for that person or situation. As a result I have had to listen to far less negativity because typically the person doesn’t really want to pray for someone, only talk about them. Loyalty counts, and we of all people on earth, ought to show it…for Jesus’ sake.

Lord, help us edify one another, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Mark Maggiori, used by permission. Thanks, Mark, and God bless you.