Scripture to Read: 1 Thessalonians 5
As we open up our eyes and hearts to what God is teaching us about discipleship, we find another gem in God’s Word guiding us in how to disciple each other. We read in 1 Thessalonians 5:14, We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. God gives us a great definition of what discipleship is all about in 1 Thessalonians 5:14. First, we are to “admonish the unruly.” The “unruly” are believers who get out of line with God and His Word. The “unruly" are believers choosing to become undisciplined in their life and also disorderly in their conduct. As believers, if we’re not continually being lovingly held accountable in our walk with our Lord, then we can become “unruly.” Second, we are to “encourage the fainthearted.” The fainthearted are those who have lost or lack spiritual courage. We need to lead them to pray Ephesians 6:10–20 for themselves, and we need to pray this for them as well. Only through our submission to Christ and His Holy Spirit in us can we experience true strength, boldness, and courage. Third, we are to “help the weak.” There are times in every believer’s life that we can experience spiritual weakness. Again, leading the spiritually weak to Ephesians 6:10 helps them understand that God tells us to be strong in Him because we have no strength apart from Him. Finally, we are to “be patient with everyone.” What a great reminder to control our temper no matter what circumstances we face in discipling others.
Challenge & Application
· What are some of the truths God taught you today, and how are they helping you as you walk with Christ?
· How are you applying these truths to your life, and how do you see others applying these same truths?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!