1 Thessalonians 5:12-13
“And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.”
It is difficult to live in peace when the world around us is nothing but chaos. There is strife on every hand, and even within the church of Jesus Christ there are factions that war against each other. If you have ever been involved in a conflict with other Christians, you know that it seems like a no-win situation.
Years ago I heard the story of a pastor who had an obstinate member of his congregation who was a constant source of conflict. He prayed fervently for the Lord to help to alleviate the problem. One day a pillar of the church, a prayer warrior, approached the pastor and said that he had been praying for the Lord to do what only He could do about the troublesome member.
It was a few weeks later during a prayer service that this prayer warrior was called on to pray. He had prayed for the trouble maker so frequently in his private prayers that he forgot that brother “X” was sitting right behind him as he prayed: “Lord, you know how much trouble old brother “X” has been causing. Lord, please sweeten him up or take him home to heaven.” What an embarrassing moment!
Paul informs the Thessalonians about the steps to peace: 1. Live in peace with each other. 2. Warn those who are idle and disruptive. 3. Encourage the disheartened. 4. Help the weak. 5. Be patient with everyone. Five easy steps. Why do we make it so hard?
Blessings dear hearts. May God richly bless you as you bless others by your words and actions!
– – – Pastor Cecil