“Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, Who loved us and gave us everlasting consolation and encouragement and well-founded hope through [His] grace (unmerited favor), Comfort and encourage your hearts and strengthen them [make them steadfast and keep them unswerving] in every good work and word.”
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 AMPC
Grace Perspective:
In this chapter of Scripture, Paul addresses the fears of believers who thought they were experiencing the Great Tribulation and had missed the Rapture (when Christ takes believers from the earth to be with Him). The believers needed to be encouraged with the truth that they hadn’t missed the Rapture. Also, they needed the reminder to share the gospel of grace with the unbelieving world. We need the same encouragement!
In this passage, the word encourages means ‘to make stable, place firmly, set fast, fix, to strengthen, make firm, to render constant, confirm, one’s mind.’ We have this encouragement because of Christ and His steadfast love, especially when doubts or fears threaten our faith. In Him, we have well-founded and eternal comfort, hope, and strength to endure life’s difficulties.
The Word of God is our anchor, offering not just stability and comfort but also unwavering strength -especially in a confusing and chaotic world. When we feel off-kilter, we need to be reminded of what is true to dispel doubt and fear. These verses affirm that our Savior, Jesus Christ, loves us, and in Him, we find comfort and strength that never fail.
We need this gracious encouragement to stay firm and committed to Christ’s calling-sharing the gospel, showing love and compassion, and living out His teachings. Until He returns or calls us home, remain in the Word to be strengthened and inspired to encourage others in their faith journey.
A Touch of Grace:
What is discouraging you today?
Where do you find encouragement?
How do you encourage others?
Grace Application:
Has life been a little chaotic for you? Umm…crazy may be an understatement with all that’s happening worldwide. In my own life, being busy is an understatement. Sometimes, I get so busy that life becomes unbalanced – you know what I mean. When this happens, I often become discouraged. But that’s why I turn to the Bible for encouragement, wisdom, and rest for my weary, worn-out mind. I also tell those close to me that I need encouragement.
We all need encouragement when life makes us feel unstable and out of sorts. Where we turn for it is crucial. If we seek stability in what the world offers, we may find ourselves confused and conflicted. God’s Word anchors our souls to Christ, who has given us everlasting comfort and secured our hope with His steadfast love. ‘Steadfast’ here means unwavering and consistent. When we live with the steady courage that Scripture gives us, we have the strength to do the work He gives us and speak words of truth that encourage others to continue to live for Him. Today, who can you encourage to remain steady in their faith?
If you need encouragement, don’t hesitate to reach out to me – I’d love to encourage you to remain steadfast in your hope in Christ.
In His Grace,
Dawn
Prayer:
Gracious Father, I come to You in the precious name of Jesus, thankful that You are my consolation and encouragement. Your Word reminds me of Your steadfast love. Please help me encourage others to remember that Jesus is the anchor of our souls. As the world continues to be chaotic and unstable, help me remain faithful to do the work You planned for me. Please help me to speak gracious words that encourage weary hearts. May I remain steadfast until we are gathered together in heaven. Amen.
[i] https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G4741&t=NASB
Today, as you read this, I pray you will know you are in Christ Jesus. If you have any doubts about your salvation, seek God earnestly so all doubt may be erased. Today is a good day to be assured of salvation in Christ Jesus. If you have questions or need reassurance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me at graceisdawning@gmail.com