July 1st, 2024

Have you ever been down, and someone came along and gave you a word that lifted you up?

Right now, Marsha and I are in a hospital surrounded by people who hear day-to-day words that can change their lives.

But we understand that the Word of God says He wants all of us to prophesy and have learned that we have the ability to change our own days and those of others.

To prophesy means to exhort, comfort, and edify. I put it in these words: to lift up, to build up, and to cheer up.

Can you be in challenging moments, not knowing what’s next, and still have the power to say words that lift up?

How do you do that? You turn to 2 Timothy, where Paul teaches us to stir up the gift that’s within us.

To stir up that gift, you have to open your mouth and begin speaking. Begin speaking words of edification over your current circumstances.

What I have noticed in my current situation is how much those words can change things. Being able to speak words of encouragement to nurses and doctors facing overwhelming cases, and to speak life to those in pain.

This brings me to say thank you to all those who have spoken words that built up, lifted up, or cheered up Marsha. Whether that was by coming to see her, writing a card, sending a text, or in your prayer time for her.

Your words and strength have encouraged us both! Continue not only to speak those words to us, but also to all those you come into contact with who need lifting up.

Thank you again!Top of FormBottom of Form

Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. – 1 Corinthians 14:1

Therefore, I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. – 2 Timothy 1:6


Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. – Ephesians 4:29 NIV