Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

When I was a Special Education teacher, I was in many, sometimes difficult meetings with parents and usually a large team of school service providers. These meetings were often so overwhelming for parents as they were hit with so much information about their children that sometimes brought them face-to-face with difficult realities. One thing I always tried to make sure of in those meetings was that parents heard positive things about their children, not just struggles and difficulties. I tried to start the meetings off that way so that it set a positive tone and parents were encouraged from the beginning. I believe it set up an easier reception of the less encouraging information.

I love Paul’s writings for this reason. He doesn’t shy away from addressing difficult, non-preferred topics; but he always starts his writings to the church with love and grace then closes them with a signature of God’s grace to the people. In 1 Timothy 1:3-5, he is encouraging and praising the Thessalonians for their faithfulness and love for each other. It is so great that he and his companions boast about them to other churches. This must have made the Thessalonians feel so proud. I’m sure they patted themselves on the back for a second, but I would guess it sparked their fire to burn brighter in their faith.

As I read this passage, two thoughts come to my mind:

Would others say these things about me and my faith?

How can I be more intentional in encouraging and building others up?

Shouldn’t we all want others to boast about our faith and love for others, like Paul did for the Thessalonians? Are these so evident in our lives that others are talking about them? Whether it be in our day-to-day lives or as we walk through life changes or trials, how can we live full of faith and love for others in such a way that others can’t help but see God in us? Maybe how we display faith and love for others will spark a fire in others to do the same. I’m not saying you should show faith and love to be bragged on, as that is not our purpose on Earth, but to be an example worth sharing with others. To be counted worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven. I want others to be able to say I have lived a life of faith and love for others.

Next, how can I encourage others more? 

Paul was intentional in encouraging the believers, praising them for their faith, offering hope for suffering, and expressing thankfulness for them. I believe his encouragement surely prompted them to continue living faithfully. I’m sure most of us would say that when we are complimented or encouraged in something, we want to continue doing that thing.

For many of us, encouraging others doesn’t come naturally, but the more we practice it, the easier it gets. Our words may be the thing that spurs someone on in their faith and good works, so that more lives may be changed.

How can you live a life of greater faith, love, and encouragement?

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

Use the S.O.A.P. Method to study God’s Word.

• SCRIPTURE: What stands out to you in today’s passage?
• OBSERVATION: What is this text saying? What is the context? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? Are there any commands, instructions, or promises? 
• APPLICATION: How can you apply this verse to your life? What does this mean today? What is God saying to you? 
• PRAYER: Respond to the passage in prayer. Ask God to help you apply this truth to your life and spend some time listening to what He may be telling you.

FALL AT VENTURE

KXP, MVMNT, The Gathering, House Church, and Care Groups are all starting back this fall! You can check the Fall at Venture webpage for launch dates and events happening this fall at Venture.