Together in Christ: 'Build Up or Tear Down' — Proverbs 14:1

This proverb explicitly mentions a woman, but the principle is universal. We have the power to bless or curse, help or harm, build up or tear down. The hard reality in relationships is that building up, blessing, and helping all require ongoing, consistent effort. Destroying a relationship can happen in an instant. A reckless word, a foolish choice, or a careless incident can wreak havoc in our homes and relationships.

How do we keep the occasional stumble from destroying our relationships and homes? We vigilantly yield our hearts to the Lordship of Jesus and choose to speak and live with gentleness and respect toward those around us. ^[1] This yielding has to be a constant occurrence.

We build up a legacy of goodwill because our character is known, shown, and trusted in how we treat each other. Our lives testify that we submit our wants and desires to the needs of the people in our lives. ^[2] This way, when we are misunderstood or we have done something wrong, there is a foundation of love and respect that folks already have so they know our true character.

When we blow it, mess up, stumble, or dishonor people, we confess our sin. ^[3] We don't try to cover it up, deny it, explain it away, justify it, or avoid it. We own it. We grieve because of it. We turn from it and return to the righteous character we need in every relationship.

Faithful, wise disciples purposely build their lives, families, and homes through kind acts of self-sacrificial service to bless others. They resist foolish sins, juicy gossip, and vindictive responses so they can live to honor Jesus as Lord and be a blessing to others. Without the help of the Holy Spirit, being a JesuShaped person who lives to bless, encourage, build up, and redeem is more than hard. It is impossible. ^[4] But with our consistent commitment, God's help, Jesus' example, and the power of the Holy Spirit, all things are possible! ^[5]