Day 6 |1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)
For Reflection:
The “therefore” in this verse is worth looking into. It refers back to 5:1-10. Paul is talking to the Thessalonians about not losing hope, while living in tumultuous times and awaiting the Lord’s return. Paul knew much about persecutions and living in chaotic cultures. According to my NIV Study Bible, the Thessalonians who Paul addressed in this letter were “thriving despite persecution”. The study Bible says the theme of I Thessalonians is Paul praising the believers for their “spiritual maturity and perseverance," and he “encourages them to further growth in view of Christ’s imminent return.”
Throughout all of human history there have been difficult times. But the good news of the gospel points us to something better. When we spend time in community with other believers, we are reminded of the future hope that awaits us when Jesus returns. And it makes the present that much sweeter.
We can sometimes be an encouragement without even realizing it. I have had the experience of a friend telling me how some brief thing I said to them, years ago, had stuck with them, and meant so much. And I didn’t even recall the conversation - God used it anyway! I have been on the other side of that blessing too. I have received little notes in the mail from a Christian friend that arrived at just the right time. Even just seeing each other at Sunday church services can be a reminder of how we are in this together.
Ephesians 4:29 exhorts us to speak, “only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Our words are powerful and can do so much to remind others of the hope we have. Proverbs 16:24 says that our gracious words are “sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” What amazing influence we can have for God’s kingdom!
Let us Pray:
Thank you Lord for the potential we have to bless others everyday. Remind us of how powerful our words and actions can be, even if we can’t see it… Shine your light and truth and hope through us with everyone we meet.
Questions:
I wonder how I might be a blessing to someone this week. How many times have I been able to make a difference in someone’s life by my words, facial expression, tone of voice? Have I ever thought about how simply faithfully showing up blesses others?