Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Encourage Others ... and Pray (1 Thessalonians 3:1-5)

Today’s scripture: 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5

We have such great benefits as children of God. And one of the best is how we have brothers and sisters to encourage us. And pray for us. Just as Timothy encouraged the Thessalonian believers.

When I’m struggling with my health, I can ask my siblings in Christ to pray for me. While I might not feel any better physically, knowing I’m being supported in prayer certainly helps me emotionally.

Paul experienced the same encouragement throughout his ministry. Yet, he sometimes felt concern that his fellow believers weren’t feeling encouraged when they heard of his “afflictions.” And rightfully so.

Haven’t you sometimes felt discouraged when you hear about someone else’s pain and suffering? You hear of a friend’s battling cancer or a colleague’s child is in an accident. And you wonder why …

When these moments—or seasons—come, you have a great opportunity to bless others by encouraging them. Even if all you do is pray—it’s more than enough.

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