Words Can Water a Weary Soul | Love Languages: Words of Affirmation | Kate Downing

>> Well, good morning Battle Creek Church. >> Well, good morning Battle Creek Church. What a joy to join you this morning. My What a joy to join you this morning. My What a joy to join you this morning. My name is Kate Downing and I have the name is Kate Downing and I have the name is Kate Downing and I have the privilege of getting to serve as the privilege of getting to serve as the privilege of getting to serve as the student director here at Battle Creek student director here at Battle Creek student director here at Battle Creek and what that means is I get a front row and what that means is I get a front row and what that means is I get a front row seat to what God is doing in and through seat to what God is doing in and through seat to what God is doing in and through our students. And let me tell you God is our students. And let me tell you God is our students. And let me tell you God is working in some really incredible ways working in some really incredible ways working in some really incredible ways in the lives of our teenagers, but he's in the lives of our teenagers, but he's in the lives of our teenagers, but he's not just doing things in them, he's also not just doing things in them, he's also not just doing things in them, he's also doing things through them to be the very doing things through them to be the very doing things through them to be the very ministers of the gospel of ministers of the gospel of ministers of the gospel of reconciliation that are helping their reconciliation that are helping their reconciliation that are helping their friends and their families, their friends and their families, their friends and their families, their teammates, even their teachers know and teammates, even their teachers know and teammates, even their teachers know and walk with Jesus. And so it is such a joy walk with Jesus. And so it is such a joy walk with Jesus. And so it is such a joy and a privilege to get to be a part of and a privilege to get to be a part of and a privilege to get to be a part of what God is doing here at Battle Creek what God is doing here at Battle Creek what God is doing here at Battle Creek Church in our students. But also this Church in our students. But also this Church in our students. But also this morning I'm so thankful for Pastor Alex morning I'm so thankful for Pastor Alex morning I'm so thankful for Pastor Alex and his leadership and the opportunity and his leadership and the opportunity and his leadership and the opportunity that he's given for me to be here to that he's given for me to be here to that he's given for me to be here to open up God's word alongside of you open up God's word alongside of you open up God's word alongside of you today. As we get ready to do that, today. As we get ready to do that, today. As we get ready to do that, there's been a verse I've been pondering there's been a verse I've been pondering there's been a verse I've been pondering and and kind of meditating on over the and and kind of meditating on over the and and kind of meditating on over the last few weeks and it's in Hebrews 13. last few weeks and it's in Hebrews 13. last few weeks and it's in Hebrews 13. Hebrews 13:15 says, "Therefore, let us Hebrews 13:15 says, "Therefore, let us Hebrews 13:15 says, "Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual offer through Jesus a continual offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name.

our allegiance to his name. our allegiance to his name. So, this morning as we get ready to So, this morning as we get ready to So, this morning as we get ready to study that this love language, would you study that this love language, would you study that this love language, would you take just a moment in your own heart and take just a moment in your own heart and take just a moment in your own heart and your own mind your own mind your own mind and practice what this verse says, to and practice what this verse says, to and practice what this verse says, to offer a sacrifice of praise to God. So, offer a sacrifice of praise to God. So, offer a sacrifice of praise to God. So, would you thank him for something that would you thank him for something that would you thank him for something that he's answered, a prayer that he has he's answered, a prayer that he has he's answered, a prayer that he has brought an answer to, or maybe a brought an answer to, or maybe a brought an answer to, or maybe a characteristic of his that you've seen characteristic of his that you've seen characteristic of his that you've seen or recognized over the last few days. or recognized over the last few days. or recognized over the last few days. Would you take a moment just to yourself Would you take a moment just to yourself Would you take a moment just to yourself and praise God for something this and praise God for something this and praise God for something this morning. Father, we thank you that we do have the Father, we thank you that we do have the opportunity to come boldly before your opportunity to come boldly before your opportunity to come boldly before your throne throne throne because of Jesus, because of his death because of Jesus, because of his death because of Jesus, because of his death on the cross and his resurrection, we on the cross and his resurrection, we on the cross and his resurrection, we have the opportunity to come boldly have the opportunity to come boldly have the opportunity to come boldly before the throne of grace like Hebrews before the throne of grace like Hebrews before the throne of grace like Hebrews says. says. says. And to offer before you a sacrifice of And to offer before you a sacrifice of And to offer before you a sacrifice of praise.

praise. praise. For you are so worthy. For you are so worthy. For you are so worthy. God, today as we open up your word, God, today as we open up your word, God, today as we open up your word, would your Holy Spirit speak to our would your Holy Spirit speak to our would your Holy Spirit speak to our hearts through your word that never hearts through your word that never hearts through your word that never returns void. returns void. returns void. God, would you speak to our hearts God, would you speak to our hearts God, would you speak to our hearts today? Would you help us to walk in today? Would you help us to walk in today? Would you help us to walk in obedience because of what we've learned obedience because of what we've learned obedience because of what we've learned today? today? today? Lord, would this time be honoring to Lord, would this time be honoring to Lord, would this time be honoring to you? Would the words of my mouth be you? Would the words of my mouth be you? Would the words of my mouth be worship unto you? worship unto you? worship unto you? Jesus, it's because of you and it is for Jesus, it's because of you and it is for Jesus, it's because of you and it is for you that we pray all of these things in you that we pray all of these things in you that we pray all of these things in your name. Amen. your name. Amen. your name. Amen. Amen. Well, the other day I I was on the Amen. Well, the other day I I was on the Amen. Well, the other day I I was on the phone with my very best friend in the phone with my very best friend in the phone with my very best friend in the whole wide world. Her name is Casey. whole wide world. Her name is Casey. whole wide world. Her name is Casey. She's this little southern 5-ft nothing She's this little southern 5-ft nothing She's this little southern 5-ft nothing girl from North Carolina. And we were on girl from North Carolina. And we were on girl from North Carolina. And we were on the phone and I love to remind her of the phone and I love to remind her of the phone and I love to remind her of this one particular story that she hates this one particular story that she hates this one particular story that she hates when I remind her of. when I remind her of. when I remind her of. But a couple of years ago before she But a couple of years ago before she But a couple of years ago before she what many years ago before she had kids, what many years ago before she had kids, what many years ago before she had kids, uh she was working at this company in uh she was working at this company in uh she was working at this company in Raleigh and part of her job was to make Raleigh and part of her job was to make Raleigh and part of her job was to make cold calls. cold calls. cold calls. Now, if you've ever had to make a cold Now, if you've ever had to make a cold Now, if you've ever had to make a cold call before, you know how truly brutal call before, you know how truly brutal call before, you know how truly brutal and and just like soul-crushing that and and just like soul-crushing that and and just like soul-crushing that that line of work is.

that line of work is. that line of work is. But she would make these calls and she But she would make these calls and she But she would make these calls and she you know, made a point to remind me this you know, made a point to remind me this you know, made a point to remind me this last time I was talking with her that uh last time I was talking with her that uh last time I was talking with her that uh this particular day she had drank coffee this particular day she had drank coffee this particular day she had drank coffee and that she could not be held and that she could not be held and that she could not be held responsible for the things that came out responsible for the things that came out responsible for the things that came out of her mouth when she was on caffeine. of her mouth when she was on caffeine. of her mouth when she was on caffeine. Uh but this one particular day she was Uh but this one particular day she was Uh but this one particular day she was making like, you know, her 40th call of making like, you know, her 40th call of making like, you know, her 40th call of the day and you know, she had her spiel the day and you know, she had her spiel the day and you know, she had her spiel memorized, right? Like you you just get memorized, right? Like you you just get memorized, right? Like you you just get used to saying the same things over and used to saying the same things over and used to saying the same things over and over again. And she's leaving this over again. And she's leaving this over again. And she's leaving this voicemail and instead of ending this voicemail and instead of ending this voicemail and instead of ending this voicemail with voicemail with voicemail with "Thanks so much. Have a great day. Hope "Thanks so much. Have a great day. Hope "Thanks so much. Have a great day. Hope to hear from you soon." She ended that to hear from you soon." She ended that to hear from you soon." She ended that phone call by saying phone call by saying phone call by saying "In Jesus' name I pray. Amen." Panicked and hung up the phone. Panicked and hung up the phone. >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> And again, she was like, "You cannot >> And again, she was like, "You cannot >> And again, she was like, "You cannot hold me responsible for the things that hold me responsible for the things that hold me responsible for the things that I say when I drink coffee." I say when I drink coffee." I say when I drink coffee." But I love that story cuz it reminds me But I love that story cuz it reminds me But I love that story cuz it reminds me one of like the prayer warrior that she one of like the prayer warrior that she one of like the prayer warrior that she is, that it is no shocker to me that is, that it is no shocker to me that is, that it is no shocker to me that when she was kind of, you know, zoned when she was kind of, you know, zoned when she was kind of, you know, zoned out, the thing that came off of her of out, the thing that came off of her of out, the thing that came off of her of of her mind and out of her mouth was of her mind and out of her mouth was of her mind and out of her mouth was prayer. prayer. prayer. But the other part that I love about But the other part that I love about But the other part that I love about that story is it reminds me of the that story is it reminds me of the that story is it reminds me of the significance, the importance significance, the importance significance, the importance of the right words spoken at the right of the right words spoken at the right of the right words spoken at the right time.

time. time. In fact, God's word is full of truth and In fact, God's word is full of truth and In fact, God's word is full of truth and wisdom about words and their wisdom about words and their wisdom about words and their significance. significance. significance. We read about it in Proverbs. We read about it in Proverbs. We read about it in Proverbs. In Proverbs, we read a lot about words In Proverbs, we read a lot about words In Proverbs, we read a lot about words actually, but in Proverbs 18 verse 20, actually, but in Proverbs 18 verse 20, actually, but in Proverbs 18 verse 20, we read this that wise words satisfy we read this that wise words satisfy we read this that wise words satisfy like a good meal. I love a good meal. like a good meal. I love a good meal. like a good meal. I love a good meal. Right words bring satisfaction. Right words bring satisfaction. Right words bring satisfaction. The tongue can bring death or life. The tongue can bring death or life. The tongue can bring death or life. And those who love to talk will reap the And those who love to talk will reap the And those who love to talk will reap the consequences. consequences. consequences. And as somebody who loves to talk, I And as somebody who loves to talk, I And as somebody who loves to talk, I understand there are consequences understand there are consequences understand there are consequences involved. There's a weight to our words involved. There's a weight to our words involved. There's a weight to our words because our words are designed to be because our words are designed to be because our words are designed to be things that can bring life or death. things that can bring life or death. things that can bring life or death. There's a significance There's a significance There's a significance to our words. to our words. to our words. Paul tells us in Philippians that one Paul tells us in Philippians that one Paul tells us in Philippians that one day day day what we have to look forward to is that what we have to look forward to is that what we have to look forward to is that every tongue will confess that Jesus every tongue will confess that Jesus every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. That one day every tongue, every Father. That one day every tongue, every Father. That one day every tongue, every nation, every tribe, every language will nation, every tribe, every language will nation, every tribe, every language will declare that Jesus Christ is Lord to the declare that Jesus Christ is Lord to the declare that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.

glory of God the Father. glory of God the Father. That's why God created language so that That's why God created language so that That's why God created language so that we might declare his glory. we might declare his glory. we might declare his glory. It's why we've been studying these love It's why we've been studying these love It's why we've been studying these love languages because it is a way in which languages because it is a way in which languages because it is a way in which we can communicate his love to others. we can communicate his love to others. we can communicate his love to others. You know, a couple weeks ago we began You know, a couple weeks ago we began You know, a couple weeks ago we began this study by looking at the love this study by looking at the love this study by looking at the love language of acts of service. And then we language of acts of service. And then we language of acts of service. And then we looked at giving and receiving gifts. looked at giving and receiving gifts. looked at giving and receiving gifts. And last week we talked about the love And last week we talked about the love And last week we talked about the love language of physical touch. But today language of physical touch. But today language of physical touch. But today we're going to look at the love language we're going to look at the love language we're going to look at the love language of words of affirmation. of words of affirmation. of words of affirmation. Now, I love this one. I'm thankful for Now, I love this one. I'm thankful for Now, I love this one. I'm thankful for this one cuz this is my natural love this one cuz this is my natural love this one cuz this is my natural love language or my primary love language. language or my primary love language. language or my primary love language. Meaning it's the easiest way, most Meaning it's the easiest way, most Meaning it's the easiest way, most natural way for me to give love to natural way for me to give love to natural way for me to give love to others is through words of affirmation. others is through words of affirmation. others is through words of affirmation. And it's also the easiest way for me to And it's also the easiest way for me to And it's also the easiest way for me to receive love through words of receive love through words of receive love through words of affirmation. affirmation. affirmation. But I want to tell you that if you But I want to tell you that if you But I want to tell you that if you already know this is not your primary already know this is not your primary already know this is not your primary love language, like this does not come love language, like this does not come love language, like this does not come natural for you. natural for you. natural for you. I think today actually may be more for I think today actually may be more for I think today actually may be more for you than it is for those of us who this you than it is for those of us who this you than it is for those of us who this is our natural language.

is our natural language. is our natural language. Because I believe that even by Because I believe that even by Because I believe that even by definition love is sacrificial. definition love is sacrificial. definition love is sacrificial. There is a cost, there is a hardship There is a cost, there is a hardship There is a cost, there is a hardship involved in displaying love. But there involved in displaying love. But there involved in displaying love. But there is also great reward in doing the thing is also great reward in doing the thing is also great reward in doing the thing that God has designed us to do, which is that God has designed us to do, which is that God has designed us to do, which is to use our language to declare his glory to use our language to declare his glory to use our language to declare his glory and to display his love to people around and to display his love to people around and to display his love to people around us. us. us. Now, you know, if you've been with us Now, you know, if you've been with us Now, you know, if you've been with us for the past few weeks that we've been for the past few weeks that we've been for the past few weeks that we've been looking at the love languages through looking at the love languages through looking at the love languages through the definition and the dialects and the the definition and the dialects and the the definition and the dialects and the demonstration of each love language. demonstration of each love language. demonstration of each love language. Today, let's look at the definition of Today, let's look at the definition of Today, let's look at the definition of words of affirmation. words of affirmation. words of affirmation. It simply means this, receiving love It simply means this, receiving love It simply means this, receiving love through spoken or written words that through spoken or written words that through spoken or written words that communicate care and encouragement. This communicate care and encouragement. This communicate care and encouragement. This is a really cool one, I think, because is a really cool one, I think, because is a really cool one, I think, because words of affirmation can be communicated words of affirmation can be communicated words of affirmation can be communicated in two different methods. It can be in two different methods. It can be in two different methods. It can be spoken, so maybe that's a long phone spoken, so maybe that's a long phone spoken, so maybe that's a long phone conversation with your best friend who conversation with your best friend who conversation with your best friend who lives on the other side of the country lives on the other side of the country lives on the other side of the country like me.

like me. like me. Or maybe that's a a quick hallway convo Or maybe that's a a quick hallway convo Or maybe that's a a quick hallway convo with somebody that you work with in with somebody that you work with in with somebody that you work with in between meetings. It can even be sung between meetings. It can even be sung between meetings. It can even be sung through what I would declare is my through what I would declare is my through what I would declare is my absolute worst nightmare, being absolute worst nightmare, being absolute worst nightmare, being serenaded. serenaded. serenaded. It's a way to show affection and to to It's a way to show affection and to to It's a way to show affection and to to affirm. affirm. affirm. But it can also be written, But it can also be written, But it can also be written, >> [clears throat] >> [clears throat] >> [clears throat] >> which is pretty cool. It could be a long >> which is pretty cool. It could be a long >> which is pretty cool. It could be a long love letter to your long lost love love letter to your long lost love love letter to your long lost love or a quick text message that you send to or a quick text message that you send to or a quick text message that you send to a friend maybe that was on your heart or a friend maybe that was on your heart or a friend maybe that was on your heart or your mind that morning. your mind that morning. your mind that morning. Uh the other day I was talking with one Uh the other day I was talking with one Uh the other day I was talking with one of our student ministers at our Midtown of our student ministers at our Midtown of our student ministers at our Midtown campus, so shout out to our Midtown campus, so shout out to our Midtown campus, so shout out to our Midtown campus this morning. I was talking with campus this morning. I was talking with campus this morning. I was talking with Rihanna and she shared that her mom, who Rihanna and she shared that her mom, who Rihanna and she shared that her mom, who lives in Texas, had mailed her a card. lives in Texas, had mailed her a card. lives in Texas, had mailed her a card. Who knew that mail still exists? Mailed Who knew that mail still exists? Mailed Who knew that mail still exists? Mailed her a card and in that card she just her a card and in that card she just her a card and in that card she just wrote one sentence. She said, "I'm wrote one sentence. She said, "I'm wrote one sentence. She said, "I'm thinking of you today." thinking of you today." thinking of you today." And Rihanna said, "Kate, when I read And Rihanna said, "Kate, when I read And Rihanna said, "Kate, when I read that card, I was flying for the rest of that card, I was flying for the rest of that card, I was flying for the rest of the day. It had so filled her up. This the day. It had so filled her up. This the day. It had so filled her up. This one little sentence had so filled her up one little sentence had so filled her up one little sentence had so filled her up that she was on cloud nine for the rest that she was on cloud nine for the rest that she was on cloud nine for the rest of the day.

of the day. of the day. That's the beauty of words of That's the beauty of words of That's the beauty of words of affirmation. They don't have to be long. affirmation. They don't have to be long. affirmation. They don't have to be long. It doesn't have to be some like real It doesn't have to be some like real It doesn't have to be some like real drawn out situation. It kind of like drawn out situation. It kind of like drawn out situation. It kind of like this this 5-hour energy. This like boost this this 5-hour energy. This like boost this this 5-hour energy. This like boost of of encouragement. This boost of of of encouragement. This boost of of of encouragement. This boost of adrenaline. It's like an Alani. To all adrenaline. It's like an Alani. To all adrenaline. It's like an Alani. To all my girls who don't know that water still my girls who don't know that water still my girls who don't know that water still exists. I'm looking at some of y'all exists. I'm looking at some of y'all exists. I'm looking at some of y'all specifically. specifically. specifically. Is this encouragement for our hearts? Is this encouragement for our hearts? Is this encouragement for our hearts? It's a quick boost of energy. I I love It's a quick boost of energy. I I love It's a quick boost of energy. I I love to joke with my friends who are to joke with my friends who are to joke with my friends who are quality time people. quality time people. quality time people. I That is my foreign love language. Next I That is my foreign love language. Next I That is my foreign love language. Next week we're talking about quality time. week we're talking about quality time. week we're talking about quality time. And so you better catch me on the front And so you better catch me on the front And so you better catch me on the front row taking notes next week cuz I got to row taking notes next week cuz I got to row taking notes next week cuz I got to learn some things about that one. learn some things about that one. learn some things about that one. >> [snorts] >> [snorts] >> [snorts] >> But I joke with my quality time friends >> But I joke with my quality time friends >> But I joke with my quality time friends that I say listen, you could send me a that I say listen, you could send me a that I say listen, you could send me a text message and say, I like you or text message and say, I like you or text message and say, I like you or you're pretty or you're pretty or you're pretty or I'm glad you're my friend. And I don't I'm glad you're my friend. And I don't I'm glad you're my friend. And I don't need to see you for a week. I probably need to see you for a week. I probably need to see you for a week. I probably don't need to see you for a month. And don't need to see you for a month. And don't need to see you for a month. And I'm like, oh, we are the best of I'm like, oh, we are the best of I'm like, oh, we are the best of friends. We are so close. friends. We are so close. friends. We are so close. I read this quote from Mark Twain the I read this quote from Mark Twain the I read this quote from Mark Twain the other day. I had no idea me and Mark other day. I had no idea me and Mark other day. I had no idea me and Mark were were so so similar.

were were so so similar. were were so so similar. There it is. Me and Mark together. There it is. Me and Mark together. There it is. Me and Mark together. I can live for two months on a good I can live for two months on a good I can live for two months on a good compliment. compliment. compliment. I get that. I'm like, absolutely. Give I get that. I'm like, absolutely. Give I get that. I'm like, absolutely. Give me a nice compliment. I don't got to see me a nice compliment. I don't got to see me a nice compliment. I don't got to see you for two months. All right, I still you for two months. All right, I still you for two months. All right, I still believe we're the best of friends. believe we're the best of friends. believe we're the best of friends. That's the beauty of words of That's the beauty of words of That's the beauty of words of affirmation. It it can be this boost to affirmation. It it can be this boost to affirmation. It it can be this boost to our energy or boost to our mindset. In our energy or boost to our mindset. In our energy or boost to our mindset. In fact, often times when we talk about the fact, often times when we talk about the fact, often times when we talk about the love languages, we use this phrase of a love languages, we use this phrase of a love languages, we use this phrase of a love tank that we all are built with love tank that we all are built with love tank that we all are built with this tank that's designed to receive this tank that's designed to receive this tank that's designed to receive love in the way that we most naturally love in the way that we most naturally love in the way that we most naturally receive it. And when we do, that tank receive it. And when we do, that tank receive it. And when we do, that tank gets filled up and like the sky becomes gets filled up and like the sky becomes gets filled up and like the sky becomes more blue. more blue. more blue. And the birds are more beautiful when And the birds are more beautiful when And the birds are more beautiful when they sing and problems aren't quite as they sing and problems aren't quite as they sing and problems aren't quite as difficult and relationships are are difficult and relationships are are difficult and relationships are are easier to to navigate. easier to to navigate. easier to to navigate. But, when we don't receive love in the But, when we don't receive love in the But, when we don't receive love in the way that we most naturally receive it, way that we most naturally receive it, way that we most naturally receive it, we can often begin to look like this we can often begin to look like this we can often begin to look like this guy. guy. guy. Now, I'm going to be honest with you, in Now, I'm going to be honest with you, in Now, I'm going to be honest with you, in my home, my home, my home, we've gone all artificial. Okay? Because we've gone all artificial. Okay? Because we've gone all artificial. Okay? Because this is what happens when you give me a this is what happens when you give me a this is what happens when you give me a plant.

plant. plant. >> [gasps] >> [gasps] >> [gasps] >> But, the truth is that this plant >> But, the truth is that this plant >> But, the truth is that this plant represents us very often. When we don't represents us very often. When we don't represents us very often. When we don't receive love in the way we most receive love in the way we most receive love in the way we most naturally receive it, we become dusty naturally receive it, we become dusty naturally receive it, we become dusty and crusty and dried up and tired and and crusty and dried up and tired and and crusty and dried up and tired and less patient and less kind. less patient and less kind. less patient and less kind. But, that's the beauty of what God has But, that's the beauty of what God has But, that's the beauty of what God has designed when it comes to our love designed when it comes to our love designed when it comes to our love languages, that we are designed to languages, that we are designed to languages, that we are designed to receive love. receive love. receive love. In Proverbs, we read this about words. In Proverbs, we read this about words. In Proverbs, we read this about words. In Proverbs 25:25, like cold water to a In Proverbs 25:25, like cold water to a In Proverbs 25:25, like cold water to a weary soul weary soul weary soul is good news from a distant land. is good news from a distant land. is good news from a distant land. Like cold water to a weary soul is good Like cold water to a weary soul is good Like cold water to a weary soul is good news. news. news. Very often for those of us who have the Very often for those of us who have the Very often for those of us who have the primary love language of words of primary love language of words of primary love language of words of affirmation, when we are dusty and affirmation, when we are dusty and affirmation, when we are dusty and crusty, crusty, crusty, when we are weary, when we are weary, when we are weary, the thing that we need the thing that we need the thing that we need is the good news of words of is the good news of words of is the good news of words of affirmation. Like cold water to our affirmation. Like cold water to our affirmation. Like cold water to our weary souls, it begins to bring life and weary souls, it begins to bring life and weary souls, it begins to bring life and hope. This guy gets a little bluer. The hope. This guy gets a little bluer. The hope. This guy gets a little bluer. The birds sing a little louder.

birds sing a little louder. birds sing a little louder. We're more able to deal with conflict We're more able to deal with conflict We're more able to deal with conflict because we've been filled up by the cold because we've been filled up by the cold because we've been filled up by the cold water of encouragement, the cold water water of encouragement, the cold water water of encouragement, the cold water of words of affirmation. of words of affirmation. of words of affirmation. So, we've looked at the definition. Now, So, we've looked at the definition. Now, So, we've looked at the definition. Now, let's look at the dialects. let's look at the dialects. let's look at the dialects. Now, if you remember, in each love Now, if you remember, in each love Now, if you remember, in each love language, there are dialects underneath language, there are dialects underneath language, there are dialects underneath of it. Ways in which this language can of it. Ways in which this language can of it. Ways in which this language can be communicated even more specifically. be communicated even more specifically. be communicated even more specifically. Now, I don't speak another language, but Now, I don't speak another language, but Now, I don't speak another language, but I understand dialects because I'm from I understand dialects because I'm from I understand dialects because I'm from the south. the south. the south. And I'd like to just go ahead and state And I'd like to just go ahead and state And I'd like to just go ahead and state this. Though I love Oklahoma, it's a this. Though I love Oklahoma, it's a this. Though I love Oklahoma, it's a beautiful place. It is not the south. beautiful place. It is not the south. beautiful place. It is not the south. And we can fight about that in the And we can fight about that in the And we can fight about that in the parking lot later if you would like to, parking lot later if you would like to, parking lot later if you would like to, okay? But it is not. I'm from the real okay? But it is not. I'm from the real okay? But it is not. I'm from the real south where like every carbonated south where like every carbonated south where like every carbonated beverage is a Coke, okay? And the metal beverage is a Coke, okay? And the metal beverage is a Coke, okay? And the metal basket at the grocery store with like basket at the grocery store with like basket at the grocery store with like the wheels that you push through, okay? the wheels that you push through, okay? the wheels that you push through, okay? That's called a buggy. Okay, that's the That's called a buggy. Okay, that's the That's called a buggy. Okay, that's the dialect that I speak, southern. So, when dialect that I speak, southern. So, when dialect that I speak, southern. So, when we think about the dialects of words of we think about the dialects of words of we think about the dialects of words of affirmation, these are specific ways in affirmation, these are specific ways in affirmation, these are specific ways in which this is communicated which this is communicated which this is communicated and received. The first dialect for us and received. The first dialect for us and received. The first dialect for us today is sincere praise.

today is sincere praise. today is sincere praise. Now, this is so important to understand Now, this is so important to understand Now, this is so important to understand that sincere here is key. that sincere here is key. that sincere here is key. Sincere praise. Cuz if you are a words Sincere praise. Cuz if you are a words Sincere praise. Cuz if you are a words of affirmation person, you can point out of affirmation person, you can point out of affirmation person, you can point out insin- insincerity real quick. insin- insincerity real quick. insin- insincerity real quick. If somebody's walking around like finger If somebody's walking around like finger If somebody's walking around like finger gunning you being like, "YOU'RE DOING gunning you being like, "YOU'RE DOING gunning you being like, "YOU'RE DOING GREAT. KEEP IT UP. AWESOME. Great job." GREAT. KEEP IT UP. AWESOME. Great job." GREAT. KEEP IT UP. AWESOME. Great job." But they never take the time But they never take the time But they never take the time to like figure out what you're actually to like figure out what you're actually to like figure out what you're actually doing or be sincere about it. doing or be sincere about it. doing or be sincere about it. That's not cold water to our souls. That's not cold water to our souls. That's not cold water to our souls. So, when we think about the dialect of So, when we think about the dialect of So, when we think about the dialect of words of affirmation and sincere praise, words of affirmation and sincere praise, words of affirmation and sincere praise, it has to come from a place of it has to come from a place of it has to come from a place of sincerity. But what does praise mean? sincerity. But what does praise mean? sincerity. But what does praise mean? Well, it simply means recognizing the Well, it simply means recognizing the Well, it simply means recognizing the attributes, the the the work, even the attributes, the the the work, even the attributes, the the the work, even the appearance of someone else and appearance of someone else and appearance of someone else and complimenting them on it. It's as simple complimenting them on it. It's as simple complimenting them on it. It's as simple as looking at your daughter who tried a as looking at your daughter who tried a as looking at your daughter who tried a new hairstyle and saying, "Your hair new hairstyle and saying, "Your hair new hairstyle and saying, "Your hair looks really nice today." looks really nice today." looks really nice today." Or looking at a coworker and saying, Or looking at a coworker and saying, Or looking at a coworker and saying, "Hey, I I saw that you put a lot of "Hey, I I saw that you put a lot of "Hey, I I saw that you put a lot of effort into that slide deck that we we effort into that slide deck that we we effort into that slide deck that we we used in our presentation this morning. used in our presentation this morning. used in our presentation this morning. Thank you for that." Thank you for that." Thank you for that." Or maybe even looking at your your Or maybe even looking at your your Or maybe even looking at your your spouse and saying, "You put the dishes spouse and saying, "You put the dishes spouse and saying, "You put the dishes directly into the dishwasher this time.

directly into the dishwasher this time. directly into the dishwasher this time. And that was a gift to my spirit. And that was a gift to my spirit. And that was a gift to my spirit. But very often, offering praise can be But very often, offering praise can be But very often, offering praise can be difficult because we may not be able to difficult because we may not be able to difficult because we may not be able to praise the results. praise the results. praise the results. Like let's say your son mowed the lawn Like let's say your son mowed the lawn Like let's say your son mowed the lawn for the very first time this weekend. for the very first time this weekend. for the very first time this weekend. And he did a bang-up job. And he did a bang-up job. And he did a bang-up job. Meaning your yard looks banged up. Meaning your yard looks banged up. Meaning your yard looks banged up. >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> And your first reaction might be to be >> And your first reaction might be to be >> And your first reaction might be to be like, "Correction. We got to We got to like, "Correction. We got to We got to like, "Correction. We got to We got to We got to train him how to do this We got to train him how to do this We got to train him how to do this better. We got to fix this disaster." better. We got to fix this disaster." better. We got to fix this disaster." But what if instead of jumping right to But what if instead of jumping right to But what if instead of jumping right to teaching or right to correction, what if teaching or right to correction, what if teaching or right to correction, what if you took a moment to offer him the cold you took a moment to offer him the cold you took a moment to offer him the cold water water water of encouragement? of encouragement? of encouragement? What if you were to fill up his love What if you were to fill up his love What if you were to fill up his love tank before offering him correction? tank before offering him correction? tank before offering him correction? How much more willing might he be to How much more willing might he be to How much more willing might he be to hear that correction? hear that correction? hear that correction? To listen to what you have to say, to be To listen to what you have to say, to be To listen to what you have to say, to be ready to receive that if his spirit has ready to receive that if his spirit has ready to receive that if his spirit has been watered by the the cool, refreshing been watered by the the cool, refreshing been watered by the the cool, refreshing water of affirmation.

water of affirmation. water of affirmation. Now again, you may not be able to affirm Now again, you may not be able to affirm Now again, you may not be able to affirm or to praise his results, or to praise his results, or to praise his results, but you could certainly praise the but you could certainly praise the but you could certainly praise the effort. effort. effort. You could say, You could say, You could say, "You showed a lot of perseverance out "You showed a lot of perseverance out "You showed a lot of perseverance out there today, son. there today, son. there today, son. It was hot, and you kept going. It was hot, and you kept going. It was hot, and you kept going. And that's great." And that's great." And that's great." Can you imagine the the the life that Can you imagine the the the life that Can you imagine the the the life that that would bring to him before you then that would bring to him before you then that would bring to him before you then begin to teach how maybe he could do it begin to teach how maybe he could do it begin to teach how maybe he could do it differently next time? differently next time? differently next time? But that's the beauty of sincere praise But that's the beauty of sincere praise But that's the beauty of sincere praise is it's a way that we don't just is it's a way that we don't just is it's a way that we don't just communicate love through praising communicate love through praising communicate love through praising results, but it's also through praising results, but it's also through praising results, but it's also through praising efforts. And it's not just a way we efforts. And it's not just a way we efforts. And it's not just a way we communicate love to one another, but communicate love to one another, but communicate love to one another, but it's also a way we communicate love to it's also a way we communicate love to it's also a way we communicate love to God. God. God. We read this earlier, but in Hebrews We read this earlier, but in Hebrews We read this earlier, but in Hebrews chapter 13, we read about praise. The chapter 13, we read about praise. The chapter 13, we read about praise. The writer of Hebrews says this, "Therefore, writer of Hebrews says this, "Therefore, writer of Hebrews says this, "Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual let us offer through Jesus a continual let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God proclaiming sacrifice of praise to God proclaiming sacrifice of praise to God proclaiming with our mouths with our mouths with our mouths that proclaiming with our mouths our that proclaiming with our mouths our that proclaiming with our mouths our allegiance to his name.

allegiance to his name. allegiance to his name. That literally with our tongues, with That literally with our tongues, with That literally with our tongues, with our language, we are designed to our language, we are designed to our language, we are designed to proclaim allegiance to his name, to proclaim allegiance to his name, to proclaim allegiance to his name, to offer a sacrifice of praise. offer a sacrifice of praise. offer a sacrifice of praise. Now, for many of you, this idea of Now, for many of you, this idea of Now, for many of you, this idea of praising someone else may feel like a praising someone else may feel like a praising someone else may feel like a sacrifice sacrifice sacrifice because it may not come naturally to because it may not come naturally to because it may not come naturally to you. It may be difficult for you not to you. It may be difficult for you not to you. It may be difficult for you not to just only see the results, but take the just only see the results, but take the just only see the results, but take the time to to recognize the efforts time to to recognize the efforts time to to recognize the efforts or to take the time to think of or to take the time to think of or to take the time to think of something encouraging to say to someone something encouraging to say to someone something encouraging to say to someone else. But, here's what I want to tell else. But, here's what I want to tell else. But, here's what I want to tell you you you is that as we practice this idea of is that as we practice this idea of is that as we practice this idea of offering praise to God offering praise to God offering praise to God it will become incredibly easier it will become incredibly easier it will become incredibly easier to offer that praise to those who are to offer that praise to those who are to offer that praise to those who are created in his image. created in his image. created in his image. So, if you want to get better at showing So, if you want to get better at showing So, if you want to get better at showing or displaying love through words of or displaying love through words of or displaying love through words of affirmation, begin here. Continuously affirmation, begin here. Continuously affirmation, begin here. Continuously offering a sacrifice of praise to God offering a sacrifice of praise to God offering a sacrifice of praise to God for what he has done for you, for who he for what he has done for you, for who he for what he has done for you, for who he is is is and watch how that begins to affect your and watch how that begins to affect your and watch how that begins to affect your language and the way in which you affirm language and the way in which you affirm language and the way in which you affirm others.

others. others. So, we've looked at the sacrifice or the So, we've looked at the sacrifice or the So, we've looked at the sacrifice or the sincere praise. But, the next dialect is sincere praise. But, the next dialect is sincere praise. But, the next dialect is this, it's confident encouragement. this, it's confident encouragement. this, it's confident encouragement. Confident encouragement. Encouragement Confident encouragement. Encouragement Confident encouragement. Encouragement means to put courage in someone. It is means to put courage in someone. It is means to put courage in someone. It is literally to put courage in them, to literally to put courage in them, to literally to put courage in them, to build them up in courage. build them up in courage. build them up in courage. What does this look like in your What does this look like in your What does this look like in your everyday life? Well, it it could look everyday life? Well, it it could look everyday life? Well, it it could look like looking at your teenager and like looking at your teenager and like looking at your teenager and saying, "Hey, I see in you the the saying, "Hey, I see in you the the saying, "Hey, I see in you the the quality, the gifting of leadership on quality, the gifting of leadership on quality, the gifting of leadership on your football team or your football team or your football team or on your friend group. I see that you've on your friend group. I see that you've on your friend group. I see that you've been given by God this this ability to been given by God this this ability to been given by God this this ability to influence others. That's a gift from influence others. That's a gift from influence others. That's a gift from God. God. God. Maybe it's looking at your employee and Maybe it's looking at your employee and Maybe it's looking at your employee and saying, "I see the effort and the hard saying, "I see the effort and the hard saying, "I see the effort and the hard work, the extra hours you've put into work, the extra hours you've put into work, the extra hours you've put into acquire this client. And in fact, your acquire this client. And in fact, your acquire this client. And in fact, your example has spurred on the rest of our example has spurred on the rest of our example has spurred on the rest of our team to up our game, to put in extra team to up our game, to put in extra team to up our game, to put in extra effort." effort." effort." It could look like driving in the car It could look like driving in the car It could look like driving in the car with your friend. You're singing along with your friend. You're singing along with your friend. You're singing along to the radio, and you say, "Hey, you've to the radio, and you say, "Hey, you've to the radio, and you say, "Hey, you've got a great singing voice. You should got a great singing voice. You should got a great singing voice. You should try out for the worship team."

try out for the worship team." try out for the worship team." Now, I'll be honest with you, I'm still Now, I'll be honest with you, I'm still Now, I'll be honest with you, I'm still waiting for somebody to be a good enough waiting for somebody to be a good enough waiting for somebody to be a good enough friend to tell me that, okay? If you friend to tell me that, okay? If you friend to tell me that, okay? If you want to offer me that a confident want to offer me that a confident want to offer me that a confident encouragement, I would receive that so encouragement, I would receive that so encouragement, I would receive that so quickly. quickly. quickly. But the beauty of this idea of But the beauty of this idea of But the beauty of this idea of encouraging someone is we actually may encouraging someone is we actually may encouraging someone is we actually may be the very one to help spark or bring be the very one to help spark or bring be the very one to help spark or bring life to the seed of purpose or gifting life to the seed of purpose or gifting life to the seed of purpose or gifting that God has given someone. that God has given someone. that God has given someone. In fact, Gary Chapman, who's done a lot In fact, Gary Chapman, who's done a lot In fact, Gary Chapman, who's done a lot of research in this idea of the love of research in this idea of the love of research in this idea of the love languages, he says this, languages, he says this, languages, he says this, "The latent potential within your "The latent potential within your "The latent potential within your spouse." Now, obviously he's writing spouse." Now, obviously he's writing spouse." Now, obviously he's writing this this this to people who have spouses, but this to people who have spouses, but this to people who have spouses, but this could apply to your kids, to your could apply to your kids, to your could apply to your kids, to your co-working relationships, co-working relationships, co-working relationships, to your relationship with your parents. to your relationship with your parents. to your relationship with your parents. "The latent potential within your spouse "The latent potential within your spouse "The latent potential within your spouse in his or her areas of insecurity may in his or her areas of insecurity may in his or her areas of insecurity may await your encouraging words." await your encouraging words." await your encouraging words." Meaning that there may be Meaning that there may be Meaning that there may be a gifting, a purpose in someone that God a gifting, a purpose in someone that God a gifting, a purpose in someone that God has placed around you has placed around you has placed around you that is like a seed that God has planted that is like a seed that God has planted that is like a seed that God has planted in them, and it is just waiting for you in them, and it is just waiting for you in them, and it is just waiting for you to pour the word of encouragement, to to pour the word of encouragement, to to pour the word of encouragement, to pour confident encouragement onto that pour confident encouragement onto that pour confident encouragement onto that seed so that the purpose and gifting seed so that the purpose and gifting seed so that the purpose and gifting that God has designed that person with that God has designed that person with that God has designed that person with might sprout up.

might sprout up. might sprout up. What an incredible and powerful thing What an incredible and powerful thing What an incredible and powerful thing words of affirmation can be. words of affirmation can be. words of affirmation can be. So, we see this not only in our So, we see this not only in our So, we see this not only in our relationships, but we see this in relationships, but we see this in relationships, but we see this in scripture scripture scripture that in Ephesians 4, Paul writes this, that in Ephesians 4, Paul writes this, that in Ephesians 4, Paul writes this, "Let everything you say be good and "Let everything you say be good and "Let everything you say be good and helpful so that your words will be an helpful so that your words will be an helpful so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them." encouragement to those who hear them." encouragement to those who hear them." I have this verse plastered up in my I have this verse plastered up in my I have this verse plastered up in my bathroom cuz even though I'm a words of bathroom cuz even though I'm a words of bathroom cuz even though I'm a words of affirmation person, I still have to be affirmation person, I still have to be affirmation person, I still have to be reminded that everything I say, all the reminded that everything I say, all the reminded that everything I say, all the words, that's a lot, all the words are words, that's a lot, all the words are words, that's a lot, all the words are to be good and helpful. They're to be an to be good and helpful. They're to be an to be good and helpful. They're to be an encouragement, encouragement, encouragement, a building up of those who hear them. a building up of those who hear them. a building up of those who hear them. That's God's design for our language, That's God's design for our language, That's God's design for our language, for our words. for our words. for our words. So, we have seen sincere praise and So, we have seen sincere praise and So, we have seen sincere praise and confident encouragement. confident encouragement. confident encouragement. Lastly, we have heartfelt affection. Lastly, we have heartfelt affection. Lastly, we have heartfelt affection. Now, this one's pretty easy to Now, this one's pretty easy to Now, this one's pretty easy to understand and it's just simply understand and it's just simply understand and it's just simply expressions of love.

expressions of love. expressions of love. This again could look like uh saying to This again could look like uh saying to This again could look like uh saying to your spouse before you leave for work, your spouse before you leave for work, your spouse before you leave for work, "I love you." "I love you." "I love you." Or writing a little note in your kids uh Or writing a little note in your kids uh Or writing a little note in your kids uh lunchbox that says, "I'm proud of you." lunchbox that says, "I'm proud of you." lunchbox that says, "I'm proud of you." on their first day of school. on their first day of school. on their first day of school. Or calling your parents, young adults, Or calling your parents, young adults, Or calling your parents, young adults, I'm talking to you, calling your parents I'm talking to you, calling your parents I'm talking to you, calling your parents and saying, "Hey, I have missed you." and saying, "Hey, I have missed you." and saying, "Hey, I have missed you." That's a that's a way to express love. That's a that's a way to express love. That's a that's a way to express love. It doesn't have to be this big, you It doesn't have to be this big, you It doesn't have to be this big, you know, soliloquy. It doesn't have to be know, soliloquy. It doesn't have to be know, soliloquy. It doesn't have to be some grand poem that you wrote. You can some grand poem that you wrote. You can some grand poem that you wrote. You can just express your love pretty simply. In just express your love pretty simply. In just express your love pretty simply. In fact, when I was a little kid, my mom fact, when I was a little kid, my mom fact, when I was a little kid, my mom would often say to me, "Kate, you're the would often say to me, "Kate, you're the would often say to me, "Kate, you're the apple of my eye." apple of my eye." apple of my eye." Isn't that precious? I know. Isn't that precious? I know. Isn't that precious? I know. Now, as a five-year-old, I didn't really Now, as a five-year-old, I didn't really Now, as a five-year-old, I didn't really understand what apple of my eye meant. understand what apple of my eye meant. understand what apple of my eye meant. Like, I didn't get that phrase. But, I Like, I didn't get that phrase. But, I Like, I didn't get that phrase. But, I knew that it was a heartfelt expression knew that it was a heartfelt expression knew that it was a heartfelt expression of love. It was affection that what she of love. It was affection that what she of love. It was affection that what she was showing to me. was showing to me. was showing to me. And because I then wanted to show that And because I then wanted to show that And because I then wanted to show that same affection back to her, and that's same affection back to her, and that's same affection back to her, and that's the beauty of words of affirmation is it the beauty of words of affirmation is it the beauty of words of affirmation is it is it often creates a two-way street of is it often creates a two-way street of is it often creates a two-way street of this.

this. this. Because I wanted to show that that Because I wanted to show that that Because I wanted to show that that affection back to her, when she would affection back to her, when she would affection back to her, when she would say, "Kate, you're the apple of my eye." say, "Kate, you're the apple of my eye." say, "Kate, you're the apple of my eye." I would say back to her, "Well, Mom, I would say back to her, "Well, Mom, I would say back to her, "Well, Mom, you're the broccoli of my nose." you're the broccoli of my nose." you're the broccoli of my nose." It was heartfelt. It was heartfelt. It was heartfelt. >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> It was an expression of love and >> It was an expression of love and >> It was an expression of love and affection to her. affection to her. affection to her. In fact, I'm so thankful that really In fact, I'm so thankful that really In fact, I'm so thankful that really both of my parents did this so well for both of my parents did this so well for both of my parents did this so well for my sisters and I growing up. And what's my sisters and I growing up. And what's my sisters and I growing up. And what's really fun is my parents are actually really fun is my parents are actually really fun is my parents are actually here today. So, it's so fun to get to here today. So, it's so fun to get to here today. So, it's so fun to get to tell them this in person. tell them this in person. tell them this in person. My parents did this really beautifully. My parents did this really beautifully. My parents did this really beautifully. They they were consistent They they were consistent They they were consistent and intentional and intentional and intentional to speak to use their words to to speak to use their words to to speak to use their words to communicate heartfelt affection to us. communicate heartfelt affection to us. communicate heartfelt affection to us. They told us they loved us. They told us They told us they loved us. They told us They told us they loved us. They told us they were proud of us. And what that they were proud of us. And what that they were proud of us. And what that created for us was a home of safety and created for us was a home of safety and created for us was a home of safety and confidence and encouragement. In fact, a couple of weeks ago I was I'd In fact, a couple of weeks ago I was I'd flown home, what I call home, Atlanta. flown home, what I call home, Atlanta. flown home, what I call home, Atlanta. I'd flown home to visit my parents. And I'd flown home to visit my parents. And I'd flown home to visit my parents. And on the day I was flying back, my mom on the day I was flying back, my mom on the day I was flying back, my mom packed me a snack bag. What a gift, packed me a snack bag. What a gift, packed me a snack bag. What a gift, okay? And really what that was was okay? And really what that was was okay? And really what that was was a demonstration of love in a lot of ways a demonstration of love in a lot of ways a demonstration of love in a lot of ways cuz it was acts of service. I didn't cuz it was acts of service. I didn't cuz it was acts of service. I didn't have to go to the airport and sell my have to go to the airport and sell my have to go to the airport and sell my firstborn child to purchase a bag of firstborn child to purchase a bag of firstborn child to purchase a bag of chips.

chips. chips. Um that was act an act of service. It Um that was act an act of service. It Um that was act an act of service. It was also giving gifts. I didn't ask for was also giving gifts. I didn't ask for was also giving gifts. I didn't ask for it. I didn't require it of her, but just it. I didn't require it of her, but just it. I didn't require it of her, but just out of the kindness of her heart, she out of the kindness of her heart, she out of the kindness of her heart, she gave that to me. But but not only did gave that to me. But but not only did gave that to me. But but not only did she pack me this little bag of snacks, she pack me this little bag of snacks, she pack me this little bag of snacks, but she also included in that bag of but she also included in that bag of but she also included in that bag of snacks this little Post-it notes. snacks this little Post-it notes. snacks this little Post-it notes. Now, it's probably hard to read, so I'll Now, it's probably hard to read, so I'll Now, it's probably hard to read, so I'll read it for you. It says, "We love you read it for you. It says, "We love you read it for you. It says, "We love you so much and are praying daily for you. so much and are praying daily for you. so much and are praying daily for you. Love, Mom and Dad." Love, Mom and Dad." Love, Mom and Dad." Now, it probably took my mom 30 seconds Now, it probably took my mom 30 seconds Now, it probably took my mom 30 seconds to write. to write. to write. It didn't take her a long time, but I'll It didn't take her a long time, but I'll It didn't take her a long time, but I'll tell you that long after those snacks tell you that long after those snacks tell you that long after those snacks were gone, and let me tell you they were were gone, and let me tell you they were were gone, and let me tell you they were gone quick. gone quick. gone quick. Long after those snacks were gone, this Long after those snacks were gone, this Long after those snacks were gone, this word of encouragement has remained. word of encouragement has remained. word of encouragement has remained. In fact, it remains by my coffee maker. In fact, it remains by my coffee maker. In fact, it remains by my coffee maker. So, in the morning, when my soul is the So, in the morning, when my soul is the So, in the morning, when my soul is the most weary, and it is weary in the most weary, and it is weary in the most weary, and it is weary in the morning, morning, morning, I am reminded I I am I am filled up I am reminded I I am I am filled up I am reminded I I am I am filled up by this word of affirmation, by this by this word of affirmation, by this by this word of affirmation, by this heartfelt affection. heartfelt affection. heartfelt affection. It's like cold water to my weary soul.

It's like cold water to my weary soul. It's like cold water to my weary soul. Now, I know that for many of you, that Now, I know that for many of you, that Now, I know that for many of you, that is not the story of your family life. is not the story of your family life. is not the story of your family life. You may not have had the opportunity to You may not have had the opportunity to You may not have had the opportunity to grow up with parents who told you that grow up with parents who told you that grow up with parents who told you that they loved you, and it may not be the they loved you, and it may not be the they loved you, and it may not be the story of the the home that you're living story of the the home that you're living story of the the home that you're living in right now. in right now. in right now. And oftentimes when we don't have that And oftentimes when we don't have that And oftentimes when we don't have that exemplified for us, when we don't get to exemplified for us, when we don't get to exemplified for us, when we don't get to follow in that example of someone else, follow in that example of someone else, follow in that example of someone else, we can begin to believe a lie about we can begin to believe a lie about we can begin to believe a lie about this. this. this. That somehow expressing affection it is That somehow expressing affection it is That somehow expressing affection it is weakness, or it's shameful. weakness, or it's shameful. weakness, or it's shameful. Or especially to men in the in the room Or especially to men in the in the room Or especially to men in the in the room or listening today, it it can this lie or listening today, it it can this lie or listening today, it it can this lie can tell you that it's somehow less can tell you that it's somehow less can tell you that it's somehow less manly. manly. manly. But, let me tell you that there is But, let me tell you that there is But, let me tell you that there is nothing farther than the truth. nothing farther than the truth. nothing farther than the truth. Because you see our God, all powerful, Because you see our God, all powerful, Because you see our God, all powerful, all knowing, alpha and omega, beginning all knowing, alpha and omega, beginning all knowing, alpha and omega, beginning and the end, creator and sustainer of and the end, creator and sustainer of and the end, creator and sustainer of the universe, king of kings and lord of the universe, king of kings and lord of the universe, king of kings and lord of lords, does not shy away lords, does not shy away lords, does not shy away from communicating his love for his from communicating his love for his from communicating his love for his people.

people. people. We see this in Jeremiah 31. God himself We see this in Jeremiah 31. God himself We see this in Jeremiah 31. God himself says this, says this, says this, "Long ago, the Lord said to Israel, "Long ago, the Lord said to Israel, "Long ago, the Lord said to Israel, I have loved you, my people, with an I have loved you, my people, with an I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. everlasting love. everlasting love. With unfailing love, I have drawn you to With unfailing love, I have drawn you to With unfailing love, I have drawn you to myself." myself." myself." God did not see it as weakness. He did God did not see it as weakness. He did God did not see it as weakness. He did not shy away in shame to communicate his not shy away in shame to communicate his not shy away in shame to communicate his love to his people. love to his people. love to his people. In fact, later on in the New Testament, In fact, later on in the New Testament, In fact, later on in the New Testament, we read that God says this to his own we read that God says this to his own we read that God says this to his own son at Jesus' baptism in Mark 1. son at Jesus' baptism in Mark 1. son at Jesus' baptism in Mark 1. A voice from heaven said, "You are my A voice from heaven said, "You are my A voice from heaven said, "You are my dearly loved son, and you bring me great dearly loved son, and you bring me great dearly loved son, and you bring me great joy." joy." joy." Now, if it's hard for you to to come up Now, if it's hard for you to to come up Now, if it's hard for you to to come up with things to say that are affirming or with things to say that are affirming or with things to say that are affirming or encouraging to your kids or your family encouraging to your kids or your family encouraging to your kids or your family members, maybe the idea of affection is members, maybe the idea of affection is members, maybe the idea of affection is really difficult for you to communicate. really difficult for you to communicate. really difficult for you to communicate. Let me encourage you. You could just Let me encourage you. You could just Let me encourage you. You could just like copy and paste God's words.

like copy and paste God's words. like copy and paste God's words. You could literally say to your son, You could literally say to your son, You could literally say to your son, "You are my dearly loved son." "You are my dearly loved son." "You are my dearly loved son." You want to see a change in your You want to see a change in your You want to see a change in your teenager's life? You want to watch a teenager's life? You want to watch a teenager's life? You want to watch a teenage boy begin to to walk honoring teenage boy begin to to walk honoring teenage boy begin to to walk honoring women? women? women? Moms, tell him that you love him. That Moms, tell him that you love him. That Moms, tell him that you love him. That he's your dearly loved son. he's your dearly loved son. he's your dearly loved son. You want to watch your teenage girl walk You want to watch your teenage girl walk You want to watch your teenage girl walk in confidence? in confidence? in confidence? Have high standards in her Have high standards in her Have high standards in her relationships? relationships? relationships? Tell her that she's your dearly loved Tell her that she's your dearly loved Tell her that she's your dearly loved daughter. daughter. daughter. You want to have a You want to have a You want to have a a thriving marriage? You want to have a thriving marriage? You want to have a thriving marriage? You want to have joy in your marriage? Look at your joy in your marriage? Look at your joy in your marriage? Look at your spouse and say, "You bring me great spouse and say, "You bring me great spouse and say, "You bring me great joy." joy." joy." You don't have to come up with these You don't have to come up with these You don't have to come up with these words on your own. You can just take words on your own. You can just take words on your own. You can just take God's words. God's words. God's words. Later on in Jesus' life and ministry, Later on in Jesus' life and ministry, Later on in Jesus' life and ministry, in Matthew 17 at this time that we often in Matthew 17 at this time that we often in Matthew 17 at this time that we often call the Mount of Transfiguration, call the Mount of Transfiguration, call the Mount of Transfiguration, God says this about Jesus. "This is my God says this about Jesus. "This is my God says this about Jesus. "This is my son whom I love. son whom I love. son whom I love. With him I am well pleased." With him I am well pleased." With him I am well pleased." You see, this wasn't a private You see, this wasn't a private You see, this wasn't a private conversation between God and his son.

conversation between God and his son. conversation between God and his son. This wasn't God the Father speaking to This wasn't God the Father speaking to This wasn't God the Father speaking to Jesus privately over in a corner. This Jesus privately over in a corner. This Jesus privately over in a corner. This was a public declaration of love. was a public declaration of love. was a public declaration of love. This was God verbally and intentionally This was God verbally and intentionally This was God verbally and intentionally choosing to show heartfelt affection choosing to show heartfelt affection choosing to show heartfelt affection toward his son. toward his son. toward his son. God did not see it as weakness. He did God did not see it as weakness. He did God did not see it as weakness. He did not see it as less manly. He did not see not see it as less manly. He did not see not see it as less manly. He did not see it as shameful. He clearly and publicly it as shameful. He clearly and publicly it as shameful. He clearly and publicly and intentionally declared his love for and intentionally declared his love for and intentionally declared his love for his son and for his people. his son and for his people. his son and for his people. And also know that Jesus received those And also know that Jesus received those And also know that Jesus received those words of affection and love. words of affection and love. words of affection and love. So if this is a difficult thing for you, So if this is a difficult thing for you, So if this is a difficult thing for you, if this is maybe even new for you, if this is maybe even new for you, if this is maybe even new for you, let me encourage you not to allow what let me encourage you not to allow what let me encourage you not to allow what is hard to keep you from what is holy, is hard to keep you from what is holy, is hard to keep you from what is holy, from following in the example of our from following in the example of our from following in the example of our creator God, to declare with our words, creator God, to declare with our words, creator God, to declare with our words, with our mouths, the affection of the with our mouths, the affection of the with our mouths, the affection of the Lord for others.

What I love about God's word is that it What I love about God's word is that it is so clear and it is so specific about is so clear and it is so specific about is so clear and it is so specific about how we can utilize words of affirmation how we can utilize words of affirmation how we can utilize words of affirmation to be cold water on the weary souls of to be cold water on the weary souls of to be cold water on the weary souls of those who God puts around us. And we've those who God puts around us. And we've those who God puts around us. And we've looked at the definition and we've looked at the definition and we've looked at the definition and we've looked at the dialects, but what does it looked at the dialects, but what does it looked at the dialects, but what does it mean to demonstrate this? To actually do mean to demonstrate this? To actually do mean to demonstrate this? To actually do this? Well, we've been looking at it this? Well, we've been looking at it this? Well, we've been looking at it through this kind of filter or this through this kind of filter or this through this kind of filter or this table where we've been talking about how table where we've been talking about how table where we've been talking about how we give and receive these different love we give and receive these different love we give and receive these different love languages through both the spirit and languages through both the spirit and languages through both the spirit and the flesh. the flesh. the flesh. So what does it look like to give or to So what does it look like to give or to So what does it look like to give or to receive words of affirmation in the receive words of affirmation in the receive words of affirmation in the spirit? It looks like you accept those spirit? It looks like you accept those spirit? It looks like you accept those words with gratitude. You don't excuse words with gratitude. You don't excuse words with gratitude. You don't excuse them. You don't You don't say, "Well, I them. You don't You don't say, "Well, I them. You don't You don't say, "Well, I don't know if that's true." You just don't know if that's true." You just don't know if that's true." You just accept it. You just say, "Thank you. accept it. You just say, "Thank you. accept it. You just say, "Thank you. >> [gasps] >> [gasps] >> [gasps] >> I am grateful for that." >> I am grateful for that." >> I am grateful for that." You accept those words with gratitude. You accept those words with gratitude. You accept those words with gratitude. What's it like to give words of What's it like to give words of What's it like to give words of affirmation through the spirit? affirmation through the spirit? affirmation through the spirit? Well, you create powerful encouragement. Well, you create powerful encouragement. Well, you create powerful encouragement. You powerfully put courage into others.

You powerfully put courage into others. You powerfully put courage into others. And you create life-giving environments. And you create life-giving environments. And you create life-giving environments. Remember that in the tongue is the power Remember that in the tongue is the power Remember that in the tongue is the power of life and death. You can create in of life and death. You can create in of life and death. You can create in your home, in your relationships, at your home, in your relationships, at your home, in your relationships, at your workplace, a place of safety and your workplace, a place of safety and your workplace, a place of safety and confidence by giving words of confidence by giving words of confidence by giving words of affirmation through the spirit. affirmation through the spirit. affirmation through the spirit. But what does it look like when we do But what does it look like when we do But what does it look like when we do this in the flesh? When we receive words this in the flesh? When we receive words this in the flesh? When we receive words of affirmation in the flesh, often we of affirmation in the flesh, often we of affirmation in the flesh, often we become validation dependent. Like a drug become validation dependent. Like a drug become validation dependent. Like a drug addict, like jonesing for the next hit, addict, like jonesing for the next hit, addict, like jonesing for the next hit, we we often become dependent we we often become dependent we we often become dependent on validation. on validation. on validation. I actually think this is why social I actually think this is why social I actually think this is why social media has become like so big in our media has become like so big in our media has become like so big in our society. And back in January, you know society. And back in January, you know society. And back in January, you know that that we talked about this idea of that that we talked about this idea of that that we talked about this idea of of how social media has become like all of how social media has become like all of how social media has become like all consuming. And we fasted from it for a consuming. And we fasted from it for a consuming. And we fasted from it for a while, and what a gift that was. And I while, and what a gift that was. And I while, and what a gift that was. And I think the reason why it's so addicting think the reason why it's so addicting think the reason why it's so addicting is this this dopamine hit of being is this this dopamine hit of being is this this dopamine hit of being affirmed. Somebody liking our post or affirmed. Somebody liking our post or affirmed. Somebody liking our post or commenting on what we said or saying commenting on what we said or saying commenting on what we said or saying that we look like a beautiful family. that we look like a beautiful family. that we look like a beautiful family. And it's this affirmation that we begin And it's this affirmation that we begin And it's this affirmation that we begin to receive. But when we receive it in to receive. But when we receive it in to receive. But when we receive it in the flesh, we begin to believe the lie the flesh, we begin to believe the lie the flesh, we begin to believe the lie that those words validate us.

that those words validate us. that those words validate us. But the truth is is that people can But the truth is is that people can But the truth is is that people can affirm and people can encourage and affirm and people can encourage and affirm and people can encourage and people can praise and people can even people can praise and people can even people can praise and people can even show us affection. But only our creator show us affection. But only our creator show us affection. But only our creator God can validate you and I. Only he can God can validate you and I. Only he can God can validate you and I. Only he can offer you, can declare for you what your offer you, can declare for you what your offer you, can declare for you what your value is. value is. value is. Man cannot, people cannot, social media Man cannot, people cannot, social media Man cannot, people cannot, social media cannot. Only God can. cannot. Only God can. cannot. Only God can. But when we're in the flesh, we often But when we're in the flesh, we often But when we're in the flesh, we often begin to believe, we often begin to begin to believe, we often begin to begin to believe, we often begin to become validation dependent on the words become validation dependent on the words become validation dependent on the words of others. of others. of others. But equally as dangerous is when we But equally as dangerous is when we But equally as dangerous is when we begin to give words of affirmation in begin to give words of affirmation in begin to give words of affirmation in the flesh. the flesh. the flesh. When we do that, we use words to get When we do that, we use words to get When we do that, we use words to get something in return. something in return. something in return. This is called manipulation. This is called manipulation. This is called manipulation. Another word in scripture is flattery. Another word in scripture is flattery. Another word in scripture is flattery. And scripture is full of warnings And scripture is full of warnings And scripture is full of warnings against flattery. In Proverbs we read against flattery. In Proverbs we read against flattery. In Proverbs we read this, this, this, that a lying tongue hates its victims that a lying tongue hates its victims that a lying tongue hates its victims and flattering words cause ruin.

and flattering words cause ruin. and flattering words cause ruin. In Psalm 12:2 we read that neighbors lie In Psalm 12:2 we read that neighbors lie In Psalm 12:2 we read that neighbors lie to each other, speaking with flattering to each other, speaking with flattering to each other, speaking with flattering lips and deceitful hearts. May the Lord lips and deceitful hearts. May the Lord lips and deceitful hearts. May the Lord cut off their flattering lips and cut off their flattering lips and cut off their flattering lips and silence their boastful tongues. silence their boastful tongues. silence their boastful tongues. Why does God speak with such intense Why does God speak with such intense Why does God speak with such intense language? Why is he like, "We're language? Why is he like, "We're language? Why is he like, "We're chopping off their lips on this one?" chopping off their lips on this one?" chopping off their lips on this one?" It's cuz I believe that God understands It's cuz I believe that God understands It's cuz I believe that God understands that manipulation and flattery that manipulation and flattery that manipulation and flattery are counterfeits to his design. are counterfeits to his design. are counterfeits to his design. You see, he's designed our language to You see, he's designed our language to You see, he's designed our language to be a language of love, and yet be a language of love, and yet be a language of love, and yet manipulation and flattery are not a manipulation and flattery are not a manipulation and flattery are not a language of love. They are a language of language of love. They are a language of language of love. They are a language of lust. lust. lust. Let me show you the difference between Let me show you the difference between Let me show you the difference between these two. these two. these two. Lust wants to please self at the expense Lust wants to please self at the expense Lust wants to please self at the expense of someone else because lust wants to of someone else because lust wants to of someone else because lust wants to get. get. get. It wants to use words to manipulate It wants to use words to manipulate It wants to use words to manipulate someone else to get something from them. someone else to get something from them. someone else to get something from them. Love, on the other hand, Love, on the other hand, Love, on the other hand, desires to please someone else at the desires to please someone else at the desires to please someone else at the expense of self because love wants to expense of self because love wants to expense of self because love wants to give.

give. give. The most beautiful picture of true, The most beautiful picture of true, The most beautiful picture of true, genuine, real love that was ever given genuine, real love that was ever given genuine, real love that was ever given to us to us to us was shown to us through the person and was shown to us through the person and was shown to us through the person and work of Jesus Christ, work of Jesus Christ, work of Jesus Christ, who sacrificially gave of himself. who sacrificially gave of himself. who sacrificially gave of himself. He, being fully God, came to Earth, put He, being fully God, came to Earth, put He, being fully God, came to Earth, put on flesh, became fully man, on flesh, became fully man, on flesh, became fully man, lived a life that you and I could never lived a life that you and I could never lived a life that you and I could never live, live, live, a perfect life, a perfect life, a perfect life, so that he could lay his life down on so that he could lay his life down on so that he could lay his life down on the cross to be the payment for your the cross to be the payment for your the cross to be the payment for your sins and my sins. sins and my sins. sins and my sins. So that he could rise from the dead So that he could rise from the dead So that he could rise from the dead defeating death and shame and guilt. defeating death and shame and guilt. defeating death and shame and guilt. There's no greater picture of love than There's no greater picture of love than There's no greater picture of love than what Christ did for us offering us the what Christ did for us offering us the what Christ did for us offering us the opportunity to receive his free gift of opportunity to receive his free gift of opportunity to receive his free gift of salvation, to be forgiven of our sins, salvation, to be forgiven of our sins, salvation, to be forgiven of our sins, to be reconciled with God. to be reconciled with God. to be reconciled with God. If you remember back at the beginning we If you remember back at the beginning we If you remember back at the beginning we talked about this hope that we have to talked about this hope that we have to talked about this hope that we have to look forward to that one day Philippians look forward to that one day Philippians look forward to that one day Philippians tells us that that one day every tongue tells us that that one day every tongue tells us that that one day every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.

to the glory of God the Father. to the glory of God the Father. What a hope we have in that, but why? What a hope we have in that, but why? What a hope we have in that, but why? Why will every tongue confess that Jesus Why will every tongue confess that Jesus Why will every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord? Christ is Lord? Christ is Lord? Well, we're told just a few verses Well, we're told just a few verses Well, we're told just a few verses earlier in verse 8 earlier in verse 8 earlier in verse 8 that he, Jesus, that he, Jesus, that he, Jesus, humbled himself in obedience to God humbled himself in obedience to God humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on the and died a criminal's death on the and died a criminal's death on the cross. [snorts] cross. [snorts] cross. [snorts] That Jesus, out of his great love for That Jesus, out of his great love for That Jesus, out of his great love for us, us, us, is Lord and we will declare that with is Lord and we will declare that with is Lord and we will declare that with every language and every tongue. every language and every tongue. every language and every tongue. But we do that because of the sacrifice But we do that because of the sacrifice But we do that because of the sacrifice he made, because of the love he he made, because of the love he he made, because of the love he displayed for us. displayed for us. displayed for us. But did you notice how he did that? But did you notice how he did that? But did you notice how he did that? He did that in humility. He did that in humility. He did that in humility. You see, I think that's the key to this You see, I think that's the key to this You see, I think that's the key to this idea of giving and receiving words of idea of giving and receiving words of idea of giving and receiving words of affirmation affirmation affirmation in the spirit in the spirit in the spirit is that we would do it in humility. is that we would do it in humility. is that we would do it in humility. In fact, in the very way that just a few In fact, in the very way that just a few In fact, in the very way that just a few verses before in Philippians 2 that verses before in Philippians 2 that verses before in Philippians 2 that we're told to act, to speak, to live, we're told to act, to speak, to live, we're told to act, to speak, to live, that we would have the same mind that that we would have the same mind that that we would have the same mind that was in Christ Jesus, meaning the same was in Christ Jesus, meaning the same was in Christ Jesus, meaning the same attitude of humility that was in him attitude of humility that was in him attitude of humility that was in him is the way in which we are to use our is the way in which we are to use our is the way in which we are to use our words for his glory.

words for his glory. words for his glory. Now, for many of you that idea of giving Now, for many of you that idea of giving Now, for many of you that idea of giving and receiving words of affirmation in and receiving words of affirmation in and receiving words of affirmation in the spirit may feel impossible the spirit may feel impossible the spirit may feel impossible because maybe you've never received the because maybe you've never received the because maybe you've never received the spirit in the first place. spirit in the first place. spirit in the first place. Meaning you've never put your faith and Meaning you've never put your faith and Meaning you've never put your faith and trust in Jesus Christ. You've never trust in Jesus Christ. You've never trust in Jesus Christ. You've never accepted that free gift of salvation accepted that free gift of salvation accepted that free gift of salvation that he bought for you on the cross and that he bought for you on the cross and that he bought for you on the cross and won for you through the resurrection. won for you through the resurrection. won for you through the resurrection. But I want you to know that today can be But I want you to know that today can be But I want you to know that today can be the day of decision for you. the day of decision for you. the day of decision for you. So, here in this room and every room So, here in this room and every room So, here in this room and every room watching today, those watching online, watching today, those watching online, watching today, those watching online, would you bow your heads and would you would you bow your heads and would you would you bow your heads and would you close your eyes? close your eyes? close your eyes? We tell our students we do this just We tell our students we do this just We tell our students we do this just simply to let you focus. simply to let you focus. simply to let you focus. But here with the Lord for just a But here with the Lord for just a But here with the Lord for just a moment, would Let me ask you this. Has moment, would Let me ask you this. Has moment, would Let me ask you this. Has there been a time in your life there been a time in your life there been a time in your life that you have put your faith and trust that you have put your faith and trust that you have put your faith and trust in Jesus? in Jesus? in Jesus? That you've offered or or or received That you've offered or or or received That you've offered or or or received his free offer of salvation? his free offer of salvation? his free offer of salvation? If you have never confessed with your If you have never confessed with your If you have never confessed with your mouth that he is Lord and believed in mouth that he is Lord and believed in mouth that he is Lord and believed in your heart that God raised him from the your heart that God raised him from the your heart that God raised him from the dead, dead, dead, >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> which is all that is required to be >> which is all that is required to be >> which is all that is required to be saved, saved, saved, let me give you the opportunity to do so let me give you the opportunity to do so let me give you the opportunity to do so today.

today. today. Would you pray this prayer along with me Would you pray this prayer along with me Would you pray this prayer along with me if you are ready to accept Christ Jesus if you are ready to accept Christ Jesus if you are ready to accept Christ Jesus as your savior? People in every room as your savior? People in every room as your savior? People in every room will pray along with you. But would you will pray along with you. But would you will pray along with you. But would you simply confess with your mouth what simply confess with your mouth what simply confess with your mouth what you're choosing to believe in your you're choosing to believe in your you're choosing to believe in your heart? heart? heart? Pray this with me. Dear Jesus, Pray this with me. Dear Jesus, Pray this with me. Dear Jesus, I confess that I'm a sinner. I confess that I'm a sinner. I confess that I'm a sinner. There is nothing I can do There is nothing I can do There is nothing I can do to earn your forgiveness. to earn your forgiveness. to earn your forgiveness. I believe you died on the cross for my I believe you died on the cross for my I believe you died on the cross for my sin. I believe you rose from the grave. I believe you rose from the grave. In the best way I know how, In the best way I know how, In the best way I know how, I turn my back on my sin I turn my back on my sin I turn my back on my sin and I trust you alone, Jesus. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for saving me. Thank you for saving me. Thank you for saving me. Before we say amen with every head still Before we say amen with every head still Before we say amen with every head still bowed and eyes still closed, bowed and eyes still closed, bowed and eyes still closed, there are many of you here today who there are many of you here today who there are many of you here today who have received the spirit, meaning you've have received the spirit, meaning you've have received the spirit, meaning you've put your faith in Jesus, whether it was put your faith in Jesus, whether it was put your faith in Jesus, whether it was last week or 10 years ago.

last week or 10 years ago. last week or 10 years ago. Yet, the idea of giving or receiving Yet, the idea of giving or receiving Yet, the idea of giving or receiving words of affirmation in the spirit is words of affirmation in the spirit is words of affirmation in the spirit is still difficult for you. still difficult for you. still difficult for you. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> Maybe because you believed the lie that >> Maybe because you believed the lie that >> Maybe because you believed the lie that that it is weakness to affirm or to that it is weakness to affirm or to that it is weakness to affirm or to express affection. express affection. express affection. I want you to know that we call upon a I want you to know that we call upon a I want you to know that we call upon a God who is all powerful, God who is all powerful, God who is all powerful, who says that we can do all things who says that we can do all things who says that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. through Christ who strengthens us. through Christ who strengthens us. And so if this is an area of weakness And so if this is an area of weakness And so if this is an area of weakness for you, would you take just a moment in for you, would you take just a moment in for you, would you take just a moment in your own heart and your own mind, and your own heart and your own mind, and your own heart and your own mind, and would you confess that to God? God, would you confess that to God? God, would you confess that to God? God, this is hard for me. this is hard for me. this is hard for me. God, I'm not good at this. [music] God, I'm not good at this. [music] God, I'm not good at this. [music] But Lord, in your strength, by the But Lord, in your strength, by the But Lord, in your strength, by the empowering of your Holy Spirit, empowering of your Holy Spirit, empowering of your Holy Spirit, would you teach me would you teach me would you teach me to affirm those who are around me with to affirm those who are around me with to affirm those who are around me with truth from your word? Would I see the truth from your word? Would I see the truth from your word? Would I see the image of God displayed in the people who image of God displayed in the people who image of God displayed in the people who are around me? Would I praise and are around me? Would I praise and are around me? Would I praise and encourage and show affection toward encourage and show affection toward encourage and show affection toward them? Now, for those of you who maybe Now, for those of you who maybe recognize today that you've used your recognize today that you've used your recognize today that you've used your words in a manipulative way by words in a manipulative way by words in a manipulative way by flattering others, flattering others, flattering others, would you take a moment to confess that would you take a moment to confess that would you take a moment to confess that sin, and it is sin, sin, and it is sin, sin, and it is sin, to confess that sin before the Lord?

to confess that sin before the Lord? to confess that sin before the Lord? Knowing that 1 John tells us that when Knowing that 1 John tells us that when Knowing that 1 John tells us that when we confess our sin, he is faithful and we confess our sin, he is faithful and we confess our sin, he is faithful and just to forgive us of our sin and to just to forgive us of our sin and to just to forgive us of our sin and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Father God, I thank you Father God, I thank you for the immense privilege it is to open for the immense privilege it is to open for the immense privilege it is to open up your word, to see in your word the up your word, to see in your word the up your word, to see in your word the beauty of the way that you have designed beauty of the way that you have designed beauty of the way that you have designed our language to work, our language to work, our language to work, that you have designed us to be people that you have designed us to be people that you have designed us to be people who declare with our mouths continual who declare with our mouths continual who declare with our mouths continual praise unto you. praise unto you. praise unto you. God, that you have also designed our God, that you have also designed our God, that you have also designed our words to be ways in which we can display words to be ways in which we can display words to be ways in which we can display and declare your love for us and for and declare your love for us and for and declare your love for us and for others to others. others to others. others to others. God, for those today that have put their God, for those today that have put their God, for those today that have put their faith and trust in you for the very faith and trust in you for the very faith and trust in you for the very first time, God, I I am so excited first time, God, I I am so excited first time, God, I I am so excited for the fact that I now have new for the fact that I now have new for the fact that I now have new brothers and sisters in Christ. brothers and sisters in Christ. brothers and sisters in Christ. That their eternity is secure. That their eternity is secure. That their eternity is secure. Lord, that they have now been adopted Lord, that they have now been adopted Lord, that they have now been adopted into the family of God. into the family of God. into the family of God. Their sins have been forgiven and they Their sins have been forgiven and they Their sins have been forgiven and they are now sons and daughters of the most are now sons and daughters of the most are now sons and daughters of the most high God.

high God. high God. Lord, for those who have recognized that Lord, for those who have recognized that Lord, for those who have recognized that words of affirmation, giving or words of affirmation, giving or words of affirmation, giving or receiving is is hard. It is an area of receiving is is hard. It is an area of receiving is is hard. It is an area of weakness. Lord, I pray that you would be weakness. Lord, I pray that you would be weakness. Lord, I pray that you would be their strength. Holy Spirit, would you their strength. Holy Spirit, would you their strength. Holy Spirit, would you empower them empower them empower them with the same power that raised Jesus with the same power that raised Jesus with the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, that now dwells in them. from the dead, that now dwells in them. from the dead, that now dwells in them. God, would you give them the strength to God, would you give them the strength to God, would you give them the strength to offer to you a continual sacrifice of offer to you a continual sacrifice of offer to you a continual sacrifice of praise. And out of the overflow of that, praise. And out of the overflow of that, praise. And out of the overflow of that, would it flow into their their would it flow into their their would it flow into their their teammates, teammates, teammates, their family, their co-workers. their family, their co-workers. their family, their co-workers. And Lord, for those today who have And Lord, for those today who have And Lord, for those today who have recognized and confessed the way that recognized and confessed the way that recognized and confessed the way that they have used their words in a sinful they have used their words in a sinful they have used their words in a sinful way. God, I thank you that you offer us way. God, I thank you that you offer us way. God, I thank you that you offer us forgiveness. forgiveness. forgiveness. But Lord, with that confession, I pray But Lord, with that confession, I pray But Lord, with that confession, I pray there would also be repentance, meaning there would also be repentance, meaning there would also be repentance, meaning there would be a turning from that sin. there would be a turning from that sin. there would be a turning from that sin. And God, that they would walk in And God, that they would walk in And God, that they would walk in righteousness and that they would speak righteousness and that they would speak righteousness and that they would speak in righteousness. in righteousness. in righteousness. God, we thank you that you are worthy of God, we thank you that you are worthy of God, we thank you that you are worthy of our worship through every word we say. our worship through every word we say. our worship through every word we say. Thank you, God, that we get to Thank you, God, that we get to Thank you, God, that we get to continuously offer to you a sacrifice of continuously offer to you a sacrifice of continuously offer to you a sacrifice of praise.

praise. praise. Jesus, it's in your powerful and your Jesus, it's in your powerful and your Jesus, it's in your powerful and your good name we pray. Amen and amen.