I recently traveled to the city of Cali, Colombia. While there I prayed for a guy named Luis who was abandoned by his father at a young age. I realized he had never had a father’s blessing. So I looked him in the eye and said, “Luis, if you were my son I’d be so proud of you.” Luis began to sob, so I gave him a big father hug. He received deep healing in that moment, all because of a few powerful words.
God gave you a mouth, and you can use it for good or bad. Some people spend all their time complaining, cursing and abusing others—and their soul becomes bitter. But God calls us to bless, encourage, affirm, edify and speak life. Proverbs 10:11 says: “The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life.” When you mentor someone, be positive. Let God’s life flow from your mouth. Be sweet—not bitter and negative. Your job is to build up, not tear down. If your goal is always to encourage, even your firm correction will be received and appreciated.