Use Your Words to Build Up: Why Encouragement Matters

Hey, Carpool Crew! I'm Pastor Justin, and whether you're in the car on the way to school, finishing breakfast, or getting ready for homeschool, I'm really glad you're here today. Alright, here's your One Thing for the ride: encouraging others helps them grow. Our verse today comes from 1 Thessalonians 5:11. It says: 'Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.' That's simple, but really important. God is telling us that our words aren't just noise. They can actually build people up. Or tear people down. If Jesus were sitting next to you right now, I think he'd say something like this: 'My friend, your words matter. You can use them to help someone feel stronger, braver, and more loved. Don't hold back encouragement. Give it freely.' That's the kind of person we want to be. Someone who builds others up. Now think about this. Have you ever had someone say something kind to you? Like, 'Hey, you did a great job.' 'I'm glad you're my friend.' 'You're really good at that.' It sticks with you, right? It makes you feel stronger. Like you can keep going. Now imagine the opposite. Someone says something mean. Or makes fun of you. Or says nothing at all when you tried really hard. That sticks too. Let me give you a real example. There was a kid on a team who wasn't the best player. They tried hard, but kept messing up. Some teammates rolled their eyes. But one kid kept saying, 'Hey, keep going. You're getting better.' 'Nice effort.' 'Don't quit.' And you know what happened? That player didn't give up. They got better. Not just because of practice, but because someone encouraged them. That's what encouragement does. It helps people grow. So here's how this plays out for you today: first, cheer others on. When someone is trying, say something. Second, speak life. Use words that help, not hurt. Third, notice effort. Don't just celebrate winning, celebrate trying. Let's come back to your One Thing: encouraging others helps them grow. No matter where you are or how you're listening, God loves you. And hey parents, if this episode encouraged your family, tell your kids pastor about it or share it with someone at your church who could use it. Before you go, talk about this together: who is someone you can encourage today, and what could you say to build them up? Alright Carpool Crew, thanks for riding with me today. I'll see you next time.