Biblical Answer

In the context of relationships, our words have the power to bring new life or further despair. When we're feeling hopeless, it's easy to get caught up in negative talk and to focus on the pain and difficulties of our relationships. However, as Proverbs 27:2 reminds us, "Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips." This means that we should be careful not to build ourselves up by tearing others down, but rather to seek to understand and build each other up. This requires a willingness to listen, to seek to understand the other person's perspective, and to offer words of encouragement and support.

When we're feeling hopeless, it's easy to get stuck in our own pain and to focus on our own needs and desires. However, as we've seen in the context of depression, this can actually make things worse. Instead, we need to be willing to listen to others, to seek to understand their pain and their needs, and to offer words of encouragement and support. This requires a willingness to be vulnerable, to be open and honest about our own struggles and weaknesses, and to seek to build each other up rather than tearing each other down. As the Bible reminds us, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger" (Proverbs 15:1). By seeking to understand and build each other up, we can create a safe and supportive environment where people feel valued and loved.

Ultimately, our words have the power to bring new life to our relationships, but only if we're willing to seek to understand and build each other up. This requires a willingness to listen, to be vulnerable, and to offer words of encouragement and support. By doing so, we can create a safe and supportive environment where people feel valued and loved, and where relationships can be restored and renewed. As the Bible reminds us, "Speak truth to each other; speak with complete honesty. Let love be your greatest aim, wanting nothing but each other's good" (Ephesians 4:25, The Message). By seeking to build each other up and to create a safe and supportive environment, we can bring new life to our relationships and create a brighter future for ourselves and for others.