All of us at one time or another have seen the brilliance of a flock of geese flying in a V shape. It is not only a wonderful sight to see, it’s a very efficient aerodynamic pattern. Scientist have studied this pattern. The lead goose does most of the work, breaking the force of the wind. Then after a period of time, he drops to the back and the next goose takes over. Scientists have shown that it takes up to 60% less effort for the geese to fly this way. The flapping of wings creates an uplift of air, which is felt the greatest at the rear of the formation. The lead goose is allowed to rest and is carried by the others. In essence, the geese uplift one another.

We too should be about uplifting one another. Most of us enjoy edifying one another, but just in case you need a little motivation here’s a few reasons why you should.

Building others up builds you up. I recently had the opportunity and pleasure of visiting Brother George Suggs. Often we may think visiting people a chore and feel we’re only doing it for the benefit of the person we’re visiting. Well let me tell you something, go visit Brother Suggs and you’ll be the one uplifted. His smile and character made me wish I could be that happy and have that kind of outlook on life. In the face of all he’s had to battle he still has his same cheerful disposition. Try uplifting someone and most of the time you find yourself uplifted as well.

The more people who have been edified, the better the atmosphere. As Paul was speaking to the church in Thessolonica, and teaching them about Christian conduct, he told them to “encourage one another and build one another up.” He also told them to “appreciate and esteem highly in love those who labor among them, and to live in peace with one another.” () When you love and edify and are able to cheer the heart of another, peace is almost sure to follow. Just think if everyone was edified and everyone had a cheerful heart. We’d have a lot less problems within the church. What a wonderful thing it would be.

Build up others because you love them. We are told that “Love does no wrong to his neighbor,” () We should be willing and able to help one another. We should pray for our brethren or just be a shoulder to cry on. We can do it, all we gotta do is try.

Let us hear the words spoken by Paul, “So then let us pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.” () Show the love you have for brethren today, and remember… “Smiles are a simple way to uplift, and they can be extremely contagious!” From the v-shaped flight pattern of the geese, observe the pattern for your service.