I admire people who are encouraging, not to say that I am not an encouraging person but I struggle with having others on my mind in my day to day life. For example I have a few friends who are absolutely incredible at keeping in touch with me. They reach out on a regular basis just to touch in and see how I’m doing. If I’m sick and they know about it, you better believe I’m going to get a phone call, an email, or a text message saying they are praying for me to feel better and to let them know if I need anything at all. These people are a bright spot in my day and although it may seem small, they play a huge part in making me feel special and thought of.

Many of Paul’s writings, including the book of Thessalonians are similar in nature. Many Christians during this time were being persecuted-especially Paul. They were imprisoned and in some cases killed for their beliefs. In the midst of all this negativity, Paul’s letters served as a source of encouragement for these new Christians and newly established churches.

1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 says, “We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” What encouraging words to those that obviously needed it. So today may we remember to be an encouragement to others. Perhaps this would be a good time to contact an old friend just to see how they are doing, or to write a note to a co-worker you know is going through a tough time-it could completely change their lives!