October 7, 2022

Passage Read: 1 Thessalonians 5 - 2 Thessalonians 1
Meditation Verses: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-14

Thought

Paul tells the Thessalonians to know and understand and appreciate those who labor in their midst, who lead them in Christ and who warn them. These are their leaders and they're trying to protect and instruct and guide them. They are setting an example that the other believers should also follow. They too should warn the disobedient, comfort those who fear, hold on to the weak and be long-suffering towards everyone. So our leaders should warn us and we should warn one another. We need to watch out for each other, and support and encourage those struggling among us.

Application

Whether I'm a leader or not, I need to know what God desires of me, because it's also what He desires of everyone. As I seek to obey and follow the Lord, I am being prepared to help others follow and obey the Lord. As I grow in my understanding and obedience, I become qualified to correct others when needed. And I should care enough about my fellow believers to know their needs, whether comfort, encouragement or even rebuke. And when I see them in need, I should be willing to step up and provide what they need, even correction or warning.