Why Building Each Other Up Matters More Than We Think
Introduction: Why Do We Spend Time on Non-Faith-Building Activities?
Have you ever noticed how easy it is to spend hours scrolling through social media, binge-watching TV shows, or worrying about things that don’t truly matter? Most of us have! In today’s busy world, it’s common to fill our days with activities that don’t really help us grow in our Christian faith. Sometimes, these things are just habits, or maybe they give us a quick break from stress. But after a while, we might start to feel spiritually dry or disconnected from God. So, what can we do to change that?
What Is Edification? A Simple Definition and Its Biblical Roots
Edification is a big word, but its meaning is simple: it means building each other up—especially when it comes to our faith. When we edify someone, we encourage them, help them grow in their relationship with God, and support them in living out their beliefs. The word comes from the idea of constructing or strengthening something, like building a house. In the Bible, edification is all about strengthening the church—God’s people—by helping one another become more like Jesus.
Why Edification Matters: The Role in Christian Community
Edification isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential for a healthy Christian life. God designed us to grow together, not just on our own. When we encourage and support each other, we help everyone stay strong in their faith, especially during tough times. Being part of a community that builds each other up keeps us from feeling alone and reminds us that we’re all in this together.
Common Distractions: How We Spend Our Time
So why do we sometimes ignore faith-building activities? Distractions are everywhere. Maybe it’s the pull of entertainment, the busyness of work and family, or just the habit of reaching for our phones. These things aren’t always bad, but if they take up all our attention, we can miss out on opportunities to grow closer to God and each other. It’s like eating snacks all day and then not having any room left for a healthy meal.
Biblical Guidance: Key Passages About Building Each Other Up
The Bible talks a lot about the importance of edification. Here are a few encouraging verses:
- 1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
- Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another.”
Ultimately, the call to biblical edification reminds us that we are not alone in our spiritual walk. Each act of encouragement, every word spoken in faith, and all efforts to build one another up contribute to a vibrant, Christ-centered community. As we invest in one another’s growth and steadfastness, we reflect God’s love and purpose, becoming instruments of His grace. Let us commit to being intentional in our support, knowing that through mutual edification, we fulfill the command to love one another and bear each other’s burdens, strengthening the body of Christ for His glory.
Minister A Francine Green, April 2026
afrancinegreen.com 