Have the same level of conviction and boldness you display when calling out unrighteousness to also recognise, celebrate, and applaud acts of godliness and faithfulness. Don’t just be quick to critique or correct; be just as intentional in affirming the good you see in others. Make it your mission to uplift and encourage the saints, strengthening them in their walk with Christ. Your words and actions can be a source of inspiration, reminding others that their efforts to live righteously are seen, valued, and appreciated.
To ensure that you are not overly preoccupied with calling out negativity or unrighteousness, consider the following practical approaches, supported by Scripture:
1. Check Your Motives
Reflect on why you feel the need to address unrighteousness. Is it out of love and a desire to restore, or is it out of pride or judgment?
Scripture: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Matthew 7:1-2)
Practical Tip: Before speaking, ask, “Am I acting in love? Will my words build up or tear down?”
2. Focus on Encouragement
Intentionally look for opportunities to acknowledge and celebrate acts of faith, kindness, and godliness in others.
Scripture: “Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘Today,’ so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” (Hebrews 3:13)
Practical Tip: Make it a habit to compliment or thank someone each day for their godly character or actions.
3. Speak the Truth in Love
When addressing unrighteousness, balance it with encouragement and love, ensuring your words are seasoned with grace.
Scripture: “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15)
Practical Tip: For every correction you make, aim to offer at least two words of encouragement.
4. Trust God’s Sovereignty
Recognise that it is not your sole responsibility to fix every act of unrighteousness. Trust God to convict and transform hearts.
Scripture: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:14)
Practical Tip: Pray for others instead of always confronting them. Allow the Holy Spirit to work in ways you cannot.
5. Focus on Your Own Growth
Spend more time examining your heart and actions rather than being consumed with others’ shortcomings.
Scripture: “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” (Matthew 7:3)
Practical Tip: Practice self-reflection through prayer and journaling to ensure your heart remains aligned with Christ.
6. Lead by Example
Model godly behaviour rather than constantly pointing out what others are doing wrong. Your life can be a silent testimony.
Scripture: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
Practical Tip: Focus on living a life of integrity and let your actions inspire change in others.
7. Cultivate a Grateful and Positive Heart
Dwelling on God’s goodness helps shift your focus from negativity to gratitude.
Scripture: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)
Practical Tip: Keep a gratitude journal where you write down instances of godliness you observe and thank God for them.
By intentionally balancing correction with encouragement and keeping your focus on love, humility, and gratitude, you’ll avoid being consumed by negativity while still walking faithfully in truth.
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