Monday March 23, “Walking In Wisdom”
One of the things I admire most about Paul is his heart. For as passionate as he was about Jesus, he was equally passionate about those he led to the Lord. And like a father who loves and cares for his children, Paul was there to teach, strengthen, and reassure young believers as they grew in their faith. He knew that as important as is the ministry of spreading the gospel, so is the ministry of encouragement.
The meaning of encouragement is “the action of giving someone support, confidence, or hope”. The members of the Thessalonian church were facing serious opposition from the Jews. And they needed all the encouragement Paul could give. So how did Paul spur them on in their Christian faith?
- Paul Sacrificed-Timothy was dear to Paul. And even though it meant Paul being left alone in Athens, he was willing to suffer discomfort in order to inspire others. And so he sent Timothy to Thessalonica in order to, “strengthen and encourage you as to your faith.” (vs. 2)
- Paul Prepared-Persecution is inevitable for followers of Jesus. (2 Tim. 3:12) Knowing that tribulations can cause new believers to become discouraged in their faith, Paul made them ready by previously warning them, “that we were going to suffer affliction.” (vs. 3)
- Paul Rejoiced-Nothing is more comforting than seeing fellow believers grow in their faith walk. Paul delighted in the positive reports given to him by Timothy saying, “What thanks can we render to God for you in return for all the joy with which we rejoice before our God on your account.” (vs. 9)
- Paul Prayed- We all need the prayers of others offered to God on our behalf. Paul prayed for the Thessalonians that God would, “Establish your hearts without blame in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints.” (vs. 13)
“God has designed the Christian life as a community event, not a solo endeavor.” (Dr. Charles Stanley)
As the days grow shorter until the glorious return of Jesus, times will continue to get worse before they get better. (2 Tim. 3:1-5, Luke 21:11, Matt. 24:7) And in the current climate of fear and hysteria in which we find ourselves, we all need the love, support, confidence, and hope from fellow Christians. Ephesians 6:18 commands us, “With all prayer and petition, pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the Lord’s people.” So today and everyday, be an encourager! Be willing to sacrifice for others, share God’s Word abundantly, rejoice in fellowship, and pray that we all will abound in love and be grounded in holiness! ( vs. 12-13)
