by Kala Loptien

The Boost that Builds

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.

And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted,

help the weak, be patient with them all.
1 Thess 5:14 ESV

Throughout scripture, we see our own “Good News Influencers” accompanied by a small group of other Believers. Or, at the very least, someone the Lord has sent to provide them with encouragement and guidance. I started thinking through these scenarios and it made me smile. Moses had Aaron. Elijah had Elisha. Esther had Mordecai. David had Nathan (among others). In the New Testament we see (or hear about) more of a small-group style of encouragement. Jesus intentionally selected his disciples. As an Apostle on fire for missionary journeys, Paul certainly sought companionship and encouragement from friends like Silas, Gaius, Timothy and Barnabas (to name a few).

There’s much to be learned from these early Believers and leaders in the faith. Today though, we recognize that they were not alone in their journey. They had a very important and special calling from God. So do we. For that reason, God gives us individuals and a community to keep us encouraged. On the flip side, He also uses us to be encouragers for others. It’s vitally important — to those we love and those who need to be reminded or hear of God’s love — that we continue to connect.

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV

It’s important that we seek to be filled ourselves while we work to help give others the boost they need. We know God is good about providing the people, the small group/community opportunities AND, most importantly, access to Him. The prayer and devotion time we set aside isn’t just a check mark for the day. It’s what we need to fill and sustain us. It’s quality time with Him. May you be encouraged this week and seek to encourage others along the way.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado