December 4, 2015
Scripture Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-15
12Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. 13Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. 14And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.
Questions for Reflection:
Paul gives instructions for the church on how they relate to each other. In verses 12 and 13, Paul instructs the church to acknowledge their leaders. What are the three characteristics of the leaders that should inspire them? The early church did not have many of the same paths to ministry that culture now has. There was no early seminary. Instead they served and in their service they were appointed as leaders.
Paul then moves into how we treat others within the church. In a world that was built on honor and status, he offers counter-cultural instructions in verse 14. Read verse 14 again. Is it easy to put those commands into practice? Is there one command in that brief list that feels more difficult for you?
Living in community presents challenges, but with the challenge comes incredible beauty. Just like marriage, there can be challenges and difficulties within relationships in the church. If we are willing to be patient, encourage, forgive and do what is good for each other, we can provide a model for the world. Spend time today praying for the leaders in your church. Spend time today in prayer asking God to give you the strength to love and encourage others well.