History Books in 90 Days: Joshua 9-10
LANGUAGES of Love
1 Thessalonians 5:11; Therefore encourage one another and build one another up…
In his book “The Five Love Languages”, Gary Chapman presents five common love languages –
ways people give and receive love.
To affirm is to tell with confidence that which is true. We need affirmation in order to succeed. We
need our worth affirmed through the kind and uplifting words of others. We tend to use weak and
vague words to encourage. We distractedly say “good job” after half-watching someone share their
talent with us. We say “thanks, hon” when our spouse does something meaningful. “Way to gos” and
“thank-yous” are a good start, but we need to be specific in our affirmation.
Are you frequently disappointed in people? Have you tried affirming them? We normally resort to
complaining and nagging when we feel that those close to us are not fulfilling our needs or following
through on their commitments. But this response is ineffective! In fact, Proverbs tells us that a
quarrelsome wife (and no doubt a husband, friend, son, etc) is like a constant drip.
One of the best ways to motivate people to step it up is to encourage and affirm them. Acknowledge
every good thing they do, and avoid badgering them about the rest. Learn what is important to that
individual, and encourage them in that area. And your tone will always trump your words. Sarcasm
and offense are not easily disguised – it is very easy to tell when affirmation and encouragement is
insincere.
Start making a deliberate choice to speak well of those whom you usually nag. Let everything you say
about them to others be affirming of their positive qualities. It will change your heart, and it just might
motivate them to action!
PRAYER and MEDITATION
1. What does the Holy Spirit want to show you from today’s reading? Ask Him to show you
something that you need to grow in.
2. Have you spoken badly about someone because you are disappointed in them? Confess idle
words and a complaining spirit.
3. Write down the names of 3 people you will see today. How can you affirm them? Ask God for
specifics, and ask Him to remind you to affirm instead of complain.
