In this Together-New Year's Resolution #3

New Year’s Resolutions

We’re All in This Together

1 Thessalonians 5:9-11

Question: Have you ever done a group project by yourself?

Intro: I am a control freak when it comes to class group projects. I could care less about the other kids, I just wanted to make sure that I received a good grade. The first time I ran into a problem with that mindset was in college. A kid wanted to do it all and we just decided to let him do the game. He stayed up all night the night before the project and we got an A-. What would we have got if we had worked equally together?

1 Thessalonians 5:9-11:  "9 For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. 10 Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. 11 So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing." 

Unity

Unity is a strong thing. Most aspects of living this life require some aspect of unity. Whether on a team, or at work, rarely does a person go at it alone. In the military unity is essential to win the battle. If one person does his own thing, it can mean the downfall of everyone. 

God’s Plan Includes Life 

The life of an Israelite was based on the fear of not living up to God’s plan. By the blood of Jesus, God reveals that He has a plan for us that includes life. We are not subject to God’s wrath if we recognize Jesus.

Jesus Brought us Salvation

Jesus saved us from facing the wrath of God because of man’s sin. If we choose Christ, we won’t have to endure wrath. However, we are not able to accomplish salvation on our own but through the conviction of the Holy Spirit. Many times an individual only comes to the recognition of this gift through the connection into the Body of Christ, or the church.

Life For Jesus Requires Unity 

Paul tells the people of Thessalonica that life is not meant to be lived alone. In all we do for Christ, there is strength in our togetherness. We can accomplish great things when we work together rather than separately. While salvation is a personal matter, the work is more about continuity among believers. This unity is centered on that all live under the blood of Christ and serve in His love.

Speak Life

I love the Toby Mac song, Speak Life. The words we speak can either bring life or death, encouragement or discouragement. Sometimes we speak before we think and it is probably wise to remember James 1:19-20. Our tongue can be our biggest friend or greatest enemy. If we are not careful, what we say can be detrimental to the growth and development of others.

Encourage One Another

I like that the word so is used here, and another translation uses the word therefore. These words reference an “and then” statement, as in we should do this because we are in the body of Christ. Encouraging people in our walk is a must, because this walk is hard. Life in itself will discourage and beat up individuals. We as the body of Christ are called to lift one another up, to carry each other's burdens. We must be careful not to add to the list of burdens.

Build and Strengthen 

Have you ever seen someone perk up when you say something nice to them? When we speak encouragement into people’s lives they are strengthened. Sometimes we are so quick to speak hurtful words, that we forget Jesus was not fast to speak. He always looked to be a voice for those who had no voice. He encouraged those who had nothing else left but shame and hurt. We must learn to not add to the pile, but look to lift and strengthen.

The Rule, Not the Exception

This is the expectation of the follower in Christ. Christ was a source of encouragement, and we must follow suit. Paul wrote many times to greet one another with a hug and a kiss. This is to showcase that believers are companions, a brotherhood, a family. Paul understood that believers bring life into each other because the light of Christ is in them. As Jesus spoke life, we must follow suit and do the same. This should be viewed as the expectation, not an exception.

New Year’s Resolution #3: Build better relationships with other Christ followers.

Maybe you are reading this today and you feel that God is angry with you or that you could never be in a place where He would forgive you nor where the church would accept you. Jesus is the great equalizer for you, because he brought you salvation. Let Him give you life today. 

Secondly, how do you treat people in your life? Are you harsh in your tone and speak discouraging words? Or, are you like Jesus that sees past people’s imperfections and loves and encourages them? It is important we know when we can work to hold someone accountable and when we need to reflect the love and light of Christ.

Blessings,

Nicholas Engleman

As always if you have any questions about this devotional or are interested in starting a life with Christ, please feel free to contact me at nengleman902@gmail.com, or by phone at 417-808-1049.