-June 5, 2023-
Good morning, happy Monday,
“Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.”
(1 Thessalonians 5:11).
There are many believers in Christ who are down, discouraged, and depressed. We have all been there at one time or another. Some have health issues, such as pain, injury, or sickness; others have lost jobs, become disabled, or recently retired; and some have elderly parents whom they care for, or have lost loved ones; some couples can’t have children or have special needs kids. There are needs everywhere, the list is a mile long.
It is so important to pray for one another, and to keep our eyes and ears open to the needs of others, especially those in the body of Christ. Paul mentions two ways we can help: comfort and edification. It is something we all can do. We don’t need a theological degree or other special training; we just need a heart of love. Paul tells the Thessalonians to comfort and edify one another just as they were already doing. One can always do more.
1. Comfort – The word comfort can be translated as encourage. We can use words but sometimes just being there shows we much we care. It may be a pat on the shoulder, a hand shake, a fist bump, a hug, a kiss, or a smile. Being a comforter or encourager is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling things we can do. In encouraging others we get encouraged ourselves.
There are saints in the hospital or care facility who would really appreciate a visit, a call, a text, or an email. A small gesture makes a big difference. Those who are elderly and shut in really need our help and encouragement. It is such a blessing to be a blessing.
2. Edification – The word edify means to build up. We can either build someone up with genuine praise, appreciation, and willingness to help or tear them down by harsh criticism or a lack of care and sensitivity. We should always choose the former not the latter. Our words and actions have a great impact.
Just as a builder carries his tools and skillfully uses them, we should also be ready to build up those around us. We should never be too busy to strengthen others who are weak or are in need. Paul wrote, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). It also says in Romans 14:19, “Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.”
Let us choose to comfort, encourage, strengthen, and build up others. Have a blessed day being a Good Samaritan to someone today. Stay safe and healthy.
Looking out for others in need to help in word and in deed,
Dean
Dean Allen's Daily Devotional 