JULY 05, 2025
Topic: “FEATURES/CHARACTERISTICS OF GODLY INTIMACY: ENCOURAGING ONE ANOTHER“
Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:9-11
Memory Verse: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up. 1 Thessalonians 5:11a“
Our words must lift others; our actions must strengthen them and our presence should reassure. These are the traits and tools of godly intimacy. As believers, we all have our seasons of challenges and storms. In such situations, a kind word or supportive act may be all it takes to rekindle hope.
A Pastor who graduated some years earlier, once felt like giving up ministry. He was tired of waiting endlessly to get a call from a church. However, an elder reminded him of God’s calling and affirmed his gift. That timely encouragement revived his zeal.
Encouragement is not only a gift – it is a spiritual ministry that fuels perseverance and joy (1 Thess 5:11a). Acts of truly caring for others often require us to step beyond our comfortable zones. When we regard fellow believers as deeply connected to us, our focus turns from self-interest, to building others up in faith and thought. When we choose to strengthen one another with words and actions, we reveal the life of Christ that is working in us.
Practice It: Choose one person in the church this week and send them a message of genuine encouragement. You can choose someone who may be serving quietly, and going through a tough time, or someone who simply needs a reminder that they are valued.
PRAYER: Sovereign Lord, help me to be mindful of those around me who need a word of hope today. Fill my heart with compassion and my mouth with words that uplift and strengthen in the name of Jesus, Amen.