Blog post May 26, 2026

Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone. 1 Thessalonians 5:14

In this one short verse the apostle Paul speaks of three groups of people. We get a beautiful picture of God's heart towards all people. He meets people where they are at and seeks to encourage them to do more, trust more and be strengthened more.

Israel in the wilderness shrank back at the giants of Canaan; yet the Lord responded with promises and presence. Elijah, after victory on Mount Carmel, feared Jezebel and prayed to die; God met him with rest, nourishment, and a “still small voice.” The disciples on the storm-tossed Sea of Galilee cried out in fear, and Jesus answered, “Take courage; it is I.” Timothy battled timidity, so Paul reminded him that “God has not given us a spirit of fear.”

These narratives trace a consistent divine pattern: the LORD confronts faintheartedness not with rebuke alone but with assurances of His character, His Word, and His abiding presence.

Psalm 23 comes to mind: The Lord is my Shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; He leads be beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength, He guides me along right paths. bringing honor to His name. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid for You are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.

Thank you heavenly Father that you meet us where we are and encourage us to do more, to trust more, to be strengthened more. Bringing honor to Your name as you lift us up and encourage us to go forth in Your strength. What a beautiful reminder as to how we are to be with others. Thank you in Jesus name. AMEN