And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone.
1 Thessalonians 5:14-15 (ESV)
Be patient? In this day of instant gratification, does this sound foreign to you? Many would say these people should talk with the pastor about their problems, but this verse says we, the body of believers, ought to treat one another with patience and encouragement!
Paul is urging his brothers and sisters in Christ to look out for others in the church.
The Greek word for idle is better translated as “unruly, disorderly or insubordinate, as in the military.” Those who are out of line must be cautioned or gently reproved to encourage obedience to God’s Word. A sister who lives with fear or doubt may need friends to come alongside who will help teach her to be bold. Those who are without spiritual and moral strength need special care from someone willing to walk with them on their journey.
The pastor may not have any idea our friend is struggling and needs encouragement, but we know! We are the closest to her and are equipped by the Word of God to help. Won’t you ask God to make you aware of someone in your church who needs your encouragement?
With patience, walk with your sister, allowing God to use you to help her as she grows in maturity. May we always seek to do good as we encourage one another!
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