“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Have you ever had someone say, “I like your shirt,” or “Nice shoes,” or “cool car”? Those are very simple things and, in the end, not all that important. But even so, doesn’t that make you happy? I often get comments on my beard, and it always makes me smile. It is amazing how a simple compliment from a stranger can brighten your day, even if it is over something trivial. So, imagine how powerful encouragement can be when it is about important things spoken by someone you know. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 tells us to build one another up. As believers, it should be our desire and normal practice to strengthen one another throughout the day. We should always be ready with a comment that will help our brother or sister lift up their head, smile, and press on. But how? You might say to yourself, “I’m just not good at that.” Well thankfully, God’s word not only gives us the command, but also equips us to carry it out.

Verse 11 begins with a “therefore” …and as you’ve heard me say so many times over the years, we must look back to see what the “therefore” is there for. The previous two verses say, “For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.” Every brother and sister, no matter what they are going through or where they are at, can be encouraged with this; you are eternally part of God’s family! He has decided to rescue us from wrath. So, whether walking around in this world, or even facing death, (“awake or asleep”) we know that our place with God has been secured through Christ. Nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38-39) …and I’m sure there is someone who needs to hear that today. Why not be the one who tells them? Why not be the one who puts a smile on their face? Why shouldn’t you be that encourager today?!

Heavenly Father, forgive us when we take for granted your beautiful grace, mercy, and presence in our lives. Let us always be conscious of this truth so that we can be the one who speaks this truth to those around us. Teach us to be effective encourages.

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Shane Cannon