1 Thessalonians 5:9-11
Chapter 5 of 1st Thessalonians is about Jesus’ return. Paul starts off talking about the fact that they seem to understand His return & how no one knows when it will be. In verse 8, Paul reminds them to live in the light being clear headed, protected by the armor of faith and love, wearing a helmet of confidence in our salvation.
Knowing the truth of salvation & living out our lives God’s ways is MUCH easier with Godly friends around. We need reminders from time to time. Encouragement to battle if we are. Encouragement to just get out of bed sometimes if we are struggling that bad. Ya know? We need each other to build up faith, to help endure, and for prayer partners to agree with. God didn’t create us for life alone.
A long time ago now, I started texting a few people 3 things I’m grateful for. (My list & number of friends I text has grown.) When I feel led by God, I ask someone if they’d like to participate. I believe this accomplishes 3 things.
It helps us shift our focus off the negative to positive. (Even if you are only grateful for coffee, you found something!)
It encourages each other. Maybe a friend thought something was silly so they didn’t text it. But they see mine & it encourages them. Or maybe they are going through something you’ve already been through, so you can give them hope to keep moving forward.
It prompts prayer from friends. Sometimes I’m able to ask & I often get asked questions like, “Why are you grateful for pain medicine?” Then, I get prayed for by that friend when I answer. (Or I pray for them.) That is an awesome way to build each other up. I highly recommend you start this practice with some friends.
