From Seed to Strength: A 5 Day Devotional for Raising Sons With Purpose by Dr. Richelle WhittakerНамуна

Day 2: Build

"The tongue has the power of life and death."
—Proverbs 18:21

Remember the saying, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me"? Whoever came up with that certainly didn’t understand the power of words. I’ve seen firsthand how words can either build up or tear down a boy.

Years ago, my son was learning to ride his bike. With his dad’s help, he started pedaling, but before long, he fell hard onto the concrete. He was ready to quit. But I gently encouraged him to get back on, reassuring him that he could do it and that I’d be right there with him. He reluctantly got back on the bike, and I held onto the seat, cheering him on. He didn’t even realize when I let go because I kept encouraging him the whole time. To his surprise, he was riding on his own! He was overjoyed, and all he needed was a little encouragement.

As moms, we have the power to either build our sons up or tear them down with our words. The things we say to them will echo in their minds long after they leave home. Those words can remind them of who they are, whose they are, and that they can do hard things. Those words will remind them that they are God’s children, fearfully and wonderfully made and that they should seek Him first in all things.

How will you begin building up your son with your words? Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance on how you can affirm your son daily.

Prayer:
Lord, guide my words. Help me to speak in ways that encourage and uplift my son, building him up instead of tearing him down. Teach me to guard my tongue and to affirm him each day with love and grace.