Scripture
So, encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. -I Thessalonians 5:11
When I first joined my church, one thing I observed almost immediately was the sense of community. Admittedly, I never actually observed this in other churches I've been a part of. After attending and engaging in the community, I understand now that it was built with intentionality. My pastor intentionally modeled and fostered community among the saints in the church until they caught his vision. So, by the time I joined, I only had to engage myself and build relationships with others in the community. Paul admonished the Thessalonians to continue encouraging and building each other. I've observed that on our online forum, my church community publicly rejoices with each other, cheers each other on, weeps with each other, and intercedes for one another. This type of loving behavior is what the Word prescribes for a strong community. I'm grateful that God has led me to this church community.
When we encourage and build each other up, give support, strengthen faith, and lift the spirits of other believers, especially in times of struggle. Though you will find this type of encouragement in church, God wants us to apply this scripture outside of the four walls of the church. Who can we edify in our jobs? Who do we encounter almost daily that could use a kind word? Sometimes people simply need to hear, "You're doing a good job." I remember sitting in a local coffee shop, and a man and a woman were catching up. They were sitting so close to me, I could hear parts of their conversation. When their conversation ended, the man stayed back for a moment to clean the table. Just then, the Lord said, "Call him over." I called him over and he sat in front of me. When I opened my mouth, edifying words from the Lord began to flow out of me. The love of God was so tangible in that moment for him. Tears began flowing down his cheeks, and he confessed that he was raised in the church, but he no longer sought God the way he used to. Actually, God said nothing to this man about his not seeking Him or his lack of relationship with Him. God told him that he was a good man, a good husband, and a good father. He reminded him that he is still called. He left the coffee shop, thanking God and encouraged.
What does it look like to encourage and edify our brothers and sisters in Christ? It looks like praying for and with each other. Offer support and guidance in any area you can. It looks like sharing the truth of God's word. We help others understand their situation and their identity in Christ. We can encourage others through God's perspective. Finally, we continuously focus on community connection. As a community of believers, we'll have disagreements, but we allow the love of God to guide us through them and build an even stronger, more supportive body.
Prayer
Father, help us to be a source of encouragement and support for those around us each day. Fill us with your Spirit so we can build up our brothers and sisters in Christ through our words and actions. In Jesus' name. Amen
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