SCRIPTURE:
“And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.”
1 Thessalonians 5:14–15
OBSERVATION:
Paul is giving the Thessalonians church practical instructions on how to build a healthy and Christ-centered community. He is teaching them that the culture of their community is formed through the way they treat one another every day. Paul shows that godly culture requires both responsibility, accountability and compassion. He calls believers to lovingly warn those who are idle and disruptive, to encourage those who feel disheartened, and to help those who are weak. He also emphasizes that patience should be shown to everyone. However, have a desire to keep from revenge or sabotaging. The right culture calls builds kingdom hearts.
APPLICATION:
One of the best people I love being around is a lady named Lupe. She is filled with love and always on a mission to reach out to people. About a week ago, she met a man and introduced him to me. She guided him on getting connected and also encouraged him to get baptized that day. She went the extra step! She showed up to support him. The following week, that man came to GDGS, and he was so excited about what it was in store. Her love and encouragement set the tone for heaven to move.
Everywhere I go, I contribute to the culture around me. The attitudes I display, the words I speak, and the choices I make all play a part in shaping the environment of my home, workplace, friendships, and church. If I want to help build a culture that reflects Christ, then I must be intentional about living out the principles in this passage.
PRAYER:
Lord, help me to build a culture of care, grace, and goodness wherever I go. Give me the wisdom to lovingly correct what needs to change and the compassion to encourage those who are hurting. Strengthen me to support the weak and give me the patience to respond with kindness in every situation. Protect my heart from retaliation and guide me to always choose what is good. Use me to create a community that reflects Your love and draws people closer to You. Amen.
