“Love one another, just as I have loved you.” These were some of the final words Jesus shared with us before he met his fate on the cross. Among the truths Christ shared in this world, many revolve around how we should treat each other. In fact, to God, our relationships are far more important than any of our other accomplishments. No matter how successful we are in our other pursuits in this life, if we neglect and ignore our relationships, we lose.

What effect are your actions and words having on those around you? Are you building people up, or are you tearing people down?

Encouragement is perhaps one of the most underrated values in our relationships. Real encouragement helps us grow to become all God has created us to be. It builds us up because God’s love builds up.