
1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV (11) Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
The Greek word for "edify" or "Build" in 1 Thess.5:11 means to be a house builder or to construct.
We have enough gloomy Gus' running around ready to cut down or tear down. Why do we think we always need to be funny at someone else's expense? Well, because of the old nature, it is certainly easier to put down, tear down and destroy, to make ourselves feel good and look good in our own eyes. But we are not suppose to walk in the old Adamic nature. The new man of Christ being formed in us exalts, builds up and edifies others greater than ourselves. The next time you are getting ready to make a "smart aleck" sarcastic remark, stop yourself and ask yourself, "What is in my heart that I feel like I need to tear down instead of building up?" Remember, out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.
Ephesians 4:29 ESV Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, (25) not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.