Build Them Up

Date: June 13, 2023

I use the BLESS method every morning for my devotional. 

B - Bible Verse
L - Listen for God's Word and pray
E - Explore the History and meaning
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases
S - Summarize and Share

You can read more about it by going to: What is a Faith Journal?

B - Bible Verse: "Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up." (Romans 15:2, NIV)

L - Listen for God's Word and pray: Heavenly Father, open my heart and mind to receive Your wisdom and guidance. Help me to understand Your will and empower me to live it out in my relationships with others. Teach me to genuinely care for and build up my neighbors for their good. In Jesus' name, I pray, amen.

E - Explore the History and Meaning:  The apostle Paul wrote the book of Romans. In this particular verse, Paul is addressing the importance of considering the needs of others and seeking to build them up. He highlights the significance of selflessness and the positive impact it can have on our relationships and the community of believers.  He reminds us that as followers of Christ, our focus should extend beyond ourselves. We are called to please our neighbors and seek their good. This involves acts of kindness, encouragement, support, and love that uplift and build them up. It reflects the selfless nature of Christ's love and demonstrates our commitment to serving others.

S - Study the Key Words or Phrases: 

"Please our neighbors": This refers to considering the needs, interests, and well-being of those around us.

"For their good": Our motive should be the genuine benefit and welfare of our neighbors.

"To build them up": We are called to edify, encourage, and strengthen others in their faith and daily lives.

S - Summarize and Share: 

Romans 15:2 reminds us of the power we have to build up our neighbors and make a positive impact in their lives. It's all about showing genuine care, support, and encouragement to those around us. So, let's dive in and explore some practical ways we can build up our neighbors.

First, our words hold tremendous power. Use them to uplift and encourage. Offer a sincere compliment to someone who needs a boost, express gratitude for something they've done, or simply share an affirming word. Sometimes, all it takes is a kind and genuine remark to brighten someone's day.

Second, be a good listener. Often, people just need someone to lend an ear and genuinely hear them out. Practice active listening by giving your undivided attention, maintaining eye contact, and offering empathetic responses. This simple act of presence and understanding can provide immense comfort and support to someone who may be going through a tough time.

Third, look for practical ways to help. Whether it's offering a helping hand with household chores, running an errand for an elderly neighbor, or volunteering for a community project, small acts of service can make a big difference. By taking the time to meet practical needs, we demonstrate our care and concern for those around us.

Fourth, offer your time and companionship. Loneliness can be a real struggle for many people. Take the initiative to spend time with your neighbors, engage in meaningful conversations, and create opportunities for fellowship. Organize a neighborhood gathering, start a small group, or simply invite someone over for a cup of coffee. Building relationships and fostering a sense of belonging can have a profound impact on someone's life.

Fifth, be a source of support and encouragement. Cheer on your neighbors in their endeavors, celebrate their successes, and offer a shoulder to lean on during challenging times. Sometimes, a few words of encouragement, a heartfelt note, or a small gesture of support can provide the motivation someone needs to keep going.

Remember, building up our neighbors is not about seeking recognition or personal gain. It's about genuinely caring for their well-being, loving them as Christ loves us. So, let's be intentional in our actions, seizing every opportunity to build up, encourage, and support those around us.

As you go about your day, think about specific ways you can build up your neighbors. It could be as simple as offering a kind word, extending a helping hand, or being a source of comfort. Let's be the kind of neighbors who bring joy, hope, and encouragement into the lives of those around us. Together, we can create a community rooted in love and mutual support.

Bible Cross References:

Ephesians 4:29: "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."

1 Thessalonians 5:11: "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."

Hebrews 10:24: "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds."

1 Corinthians 10:24: "No one should seek their own good, but the good of others."

May the love of Christ compel us to be a source of blessing and encouragement to those around us.