“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

As the new Connexional year unfolds and as the new school and university years begin I find myself praying for a kinder, gentler start to the year.

With the ever-increasing demands of life and church responsibilities it is very easy to slip into being discouraged or disillusioned with our lives where when given any opportunity by anyone at the end of the day we can so easily slip into the comfortable pyjamas of sceptical cynicism or incessant complaining whether in text or in voice rather than celebration or gratitude.  

This little verse nestled in 1 Thessalonians 5:11 invites us together to cultivate a counter-cultural-faith-inspiring attitude of encouraging others and seeking to build each other up. The courage to encourage.

Jesus was good at encouraging others and building them up. This didn’t mean he was shy to challenge and guide them, but He always built them up. Encouraging others means we authentically choose to offer words of life that remind ourselves and others of our value in God’s eyes.

And so, this is my prayer for us all:

May the needed change and transformation in our lives enter slowly and softly.

May the New year’s rhythms and responsibilities lead you towards joy and gratitude rather than complaint.

May we share less judgement and criticism and be grateful for one another.

And may we find the reflection and rest we need. Amen.

Brian