“Therefore encourage one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:18). Who in your life needs some encouragement today? It’s nice to hear “White Christmas” or “Let It Snow” until you have to drive to work in the dark on slippery roads. Maybe this change in seasons has you feel under the weather. Also, who isn’t financially stressed this time of year?
And it seems the holidays can bring out more strain in our relationships. It’s hard singing “Joy to the World” when you just feel grinchy. Maybe it’s why It’s A Wonderful Life has been such a success throughout the generations. We can all relate to the financial and family stress of George Bailey, especially when we focus on the trials we face. In time, George is brought to see that his life matters, he’s done more good than he realizes, and the people around him are better because he’s been in their lives.
I think we all need this kind of encouragement. And we don’t need angels (“second class” or otherwise) to tell us. We need each other. The Bible speaks of us honoring one another, and we see examples of Jesus pointing out the good in others that might be overlooked (cf. Mary, Luke 10:42; the poor widow, Luke 21:3).
As Christians, we not only have the opportunity to remind someone of the good they’ve done, but most importantly of the good God has done. In the context of “encourage one another” (1 Thessalonians 4:18), we see gospel facts and promises. Even death cannot separate us from God and our loved ones in Christ. For Jesus has conquered death, and He will return to bring us into His heavenly presence forever.
Because of Jesus, our future will be merry and bright. Therefore, this Christmas, encourage one another with these words.
