1 Thessalonians 3 – 2 Thessalonians 1:
Lately, I think I’ve been in need of encouragement. Maybe it’s that time in the semester, or maybe it’s the change in the weather, but circumstances have just been getting to me. I’m not going to bore you with the details because everyone has different stressors, but for empathy’s sake, I’ll just say that I’ve got a lot on my mind. So it was nice for me to read First Thessalonians 5:11-24 where Paul gives some specific examples of how we can be encouraged and can encourage others. For me, verses 16 through 18 stood out: “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances.” Praying continually is not a problem when I’m stressed or feeling down. It’s about all that I can do to keep from losing my mind. But the other two…not so much. How can I be joyful when I feel completely overwhelmed? How can I be thankful working in a job that I’m never very excited about? That’s where my encouragers come in: my husband, my small group, my friends, my family, Paul, and God. In small ways every day through words or actions, they help lift my spirit and help me see a new perspective.
Stacey
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