“…let us who live in the light be clearheaded, protected by the armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation. For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”
1 Thessalonians 5:8-11 NLT
https://bible.com/bible/116/1th.5.8-11.NLT
REFLECTION
Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary describes ‘encourage‘ as follows: (v. t.) To inspire with courage, spirit, or hope; to raise, or to increase, the confidence of; to animate; enhearten; to incite; to help forward; — the opposite of discourage.
As we face an array of issues, it can be tempting to down spiral into discouragement. The plethora of problems and all the atrocities that happen all over this fallen world are realities we certainly shouldn’t ignore, but as we fight the good fight of faith let’s not forget that God is sovereign. And, secure in His sovereignty, let’s intentionally encourage each other and become encouraged encouragers, mindful “…that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.” (Romans 8:28 AMP)
PRAYER POEM
Loving Lord Jesus ~ You are, now and forever, the King of kings, the One to whom my heart sings. I ask for grace to face realities with courage, infused with wisdom and love from above.
