This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority– the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.  2nd Corinthians 13:10  NIV

Every chance the boy´s father had, he took him to the beach.  While they were there, he would play with him in the sand.  His dad would use his plastic shovel and his plastic buckets to make him a big sandcastle.  But the toddler was waiting for one thing.  He would always get to smash the castle and destroy it completely.  Sometimes the boy had to wait for a while before he could tear down the towers and walls.  Have we ever examined ourselves to see if we really build others up or tear them down?

The boy´s father invested his time and efforts in being with his child.  Our Father and our Savior Jesus Christ have invested even more in saving us and restoring us to an intimate relationship with Them.  We, in turn, hold a responsibility.  With the knowledge we hold of Christ, an authority passes to us.  What do we invest it in?  Do we use our knowledge of God to tear others down and make them feel insecure?  Or do we go to great lengths to get down to their level?  Do we spend time with those who could use a Savior and a Friend in their lives?  With whatever privileged knowledge we have to build others up and bring all hearts closer to the Lord?

Dear Lord,

Thank You for showing us our need for You!  Now let us build up those around us in faith so they too can experience the thrill that comes from being with You, we pray!

Amen