Edify

Edify is a word not often used these days. In the Bible it has the meaning ‘to build up’, and our English word ‘edifice’ (which means a large building) is part of the same derivative.

In the Bible this verse from Romans gives the direction that God wants us to take in our lives: “So let’s strive for the things that bring peace and the things that build each other up.”  (Romans 14:19 CEB)

In the older language of the King James Version of the Bible the word ‘edify’ is used instead of ‘build each other up.’ It strikes me that we don’t see much of this ‘building up’ in our world at present. The two major conflicts that are ongoing in Ukraine and Gaza leave us images on TV of buildings that are half demolished by missile strikes. On many occasions these were once people’s homes.

The US presidential elections will be held this year and political opponents are busily ripping and tearing at each other to try and gain an advantage. Not much building up happening there.

Our news is also full of protests being held all over the world. Protests against governments, against climate change, against inequality, and against the cost of living. There just doesn’t seem to be much peace, happiness or love to be found.

The good news is that God will not let this situation go on much longer. He has promised to step in and restore some good things to ‘build up’ people who are struggling.

Isaiah chapter 11 is worth reading in its entirety about this coming time.  I’ve just chosen two verses to give a taste of God’s plan.

“He will give justice to the poor and make fair decisions for the exploited.  The earth will shake at the force of his word, and one breath from his mouth will destroy the wicked." (Isaiah 11:4 NLT)

“Nothing will hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain, for as the waters fill the sea, so the earth will be filled with people who know the Lord.” (Isa 11:9 NLT)

Please read your Bible for more information about this wonderful time!