pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: encourage


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The Pioneer

Reading: Hebrews 1-3

Hebrews 2:10 – “It was appropriate for God… to use the experience of suffering to make perfect the pioneer of salvation.”

Hebrews begins by declaring that God first spoke through the prophets (the Old Testament) and then spoke through a Son (the New Testament Gospels.) Jesus is “the imprint of God’s being.” The Son then died to cleanse people from their sins, returning to glory to sit at God’s right hand. It is a powerful opening statement.

The author then exhorts the audience to pay attention to the good news they’ve heard lest they “drift away.” He or she asks, “How will we escape [hell] if we ignore such a great salvation?” Great question. This gift of salvation was announced by Jesus and confirmed by the disciples and apostles. God offered validity through “signs, amazing things, various miracles, and gifts from the Holy Spirit.”

Hebrews then turns to who and what Jesus was and is. First, he tasted death so that we can taste grace. Jesus also lived as a human. In 2:10 we read, “It was appropriate for God… to use the experience of suffering to make perfect the pioneer of salvation.” Christ mediates for us based on experiencing what we experience. Jesus walked our road, experiencing suffering, when tempted. Through it all, Jesus was faithful to God. Because of his example and sacrifice, we can have hope and confidence. We can encourage one another every day so that one day we can “enter his rest.” May it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for sending your Son, he who walked this earth as one of us. In those 30+ years he experienced what it is like to be human – the suffering, the temptation, the pain. Yet in living he also revealed your love and the joy, hope, peace, contentment, and forgiveness found in that love. Help us today to walk in step with the Spirit, sharing that love, bringing you all the glory. Amen.


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The Long Walk of Faith

Reading: 2nd Timothy 3-4

2nd Timothy 4:7 – “I have fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.”

As I read Paul’s words to Timothy today, they seem very relevant to our current time. Many are selfish and love money, power, status. They “collect” or tune into only those who tell them what they want to hear. Many slander others, being critical and conceited. Others are reckless and seek only pleasure. When it suits them, “they will look religious.” But does the relevance end here? In verse 9 we read, “They won’t get very far. Their foolishness will become obvious.” While absolutely true in God’s kingdom, is it so here on earth?

Paul then presents his example, standing in sharp contrast to this earthly example. He invites Timothy and us to pay attention to his “teaching, conduct, purpose, faithfulness, patience, love, and endurance.” He makes us all aware of the cost of discipleship: “Anyone who wants to lead a holy life will be harassed.” Because of this reality, Paul encourages Timothy and us to stay rooted in the scriptures – what we’ve learned and been taught. Scripture is useful for “teaching… showing mistakes… correcting… training character.” Scripture equips the faithful to “do everything that is good.” What a sharp contrast to the way of the world!

In chapter 4 Paul commissions Timothy. This commission applies to us too. Paul charges Timothy with preaching the word always – whether convenient or inconvenient – and with correcting, confronting, and encouraging with patience and instruction. Paul encourages self-control, an essential for the long walk of faith. Giving his own example, Paul writes, “I have fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.” Paul knows heaven awaits. Yet he walks forward, trusting that the God who has stood by him will continue to do so until he wears that “champion’s wreath.” May this too be our walk of faith.

Prayer: Lord God, the walk is not always easy or smooth. It can be tempting to just look religious instead of being truly faithful. The outside voices can be loud and the coming suffering is scary. In those moments, remind us of your truths and promises in scripture and help us to feel your Spirit presence in our hearts. With these, lead and guide us to “preach the word” always, using words when needed. Amen.


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Strengthened and Encouraged

Reading: 2nd Timothy 1-2

2nd Timothy 1:7 – “God didn’t give us a spirit that is timid but one that is powerful, loving, and self-controlled.”

2nd Timothy is a letter written to a young but gifted pastor, defining his role and character as a faithful minister of the good news of Jesus Christ. Paul begins by reminding Timothy of the origins of his faith. It was planted in him by his grandma Lois and his mother Eunice. He then reminds Timothy of the “gift” that he has been given by God. Paul implores Timothy to “revive” that gift. To help him do so, Paul writes, “God didn’t give us a spirit that is timid but one that is powerful, loving, and self-controlled.”

Timothy must be having a challenging time. Paul next encourages Timothy, telling him not to be ashamed. Paul invites him to “share the suffering,” trusting in God’s power, purpose, and grace. The apostle turn shares his experience – appointed a teacher, suffered, not ashamed, convinced that God is “powerful enough to protect” what God placed in Paul. He is telling Timothy that he is not alone in his trials. So, Paul says, hold onto the good teachings that he has received and protect it by trusting in the Holy Spirit.

Paul also encourages Timothy to draw strength from Christ’s grace and to pass on the teachings of Christ to other capable teachers. Paul implores him to be a “good soldier of Jesus Christ” and to accept suffering as part of the rules of the game of ministry. Paul then offers some guidance on dealing with opponents, likely the source of some of Timothy’s suffering: present yourself as “tried-and-true,” don’t argue with them, and correct them with gentleness. Closing this section, Paul reminds Timothy to pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace alongside others who “confess the Lord with clean hearts.” In this fellowship Timothy will be strengthened and encouraged. As people with clean hearts may we too strengthen and encourage one another in the Lord.

Prayer: Lord God, in moments when we might feel timid or even ashamed of our faith, sweep in with the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, enabling us to speak boldly and powerfully, yet gently and kindly. Let love guide our words and actions. Use us to draw others to a saving faith in you. Amen.


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Spirit, Body, Soul

Reading: 1st Thessalonians 4-5

1st Thessalonians 5:21-22 – “Examine everything carefully and hang on to what is good. Avoid every kind of evil.”

Chapter 4 begins with an encouragement to live in a way that pleases God. Paul encourages dedication to God and avoidance of sexual immortality. He encourages them to love each other well, as they’ve been taught. Paul encourages them to live quiet lives and to earn their own living. Paul then addresses a concern. There is anxiety over the believers who have died before Jesus returned. The event that was thought to occur very soon after Jesus’ death has not happened. Paul assures them that those “who are dead in Christ” will rise first, followed by those who are still living in Christ. In this way, “we will always be with the Lord.”

Paul addresses the inevitable “how” and “when” questions next. He reminds them that the day of the Lord will come “like a thief in the night.” Heading off worry, he next reminds them that they are not in darkness. Therefore the day will not catch them by surprise. Staying awake and sober (faithful), they will be ready. Wearing faithfulness, love, and hope, they will be prepared for the day. So, Paul says, keep building one another up.

In the “Final Instructions” we receive a flurry of directives. It is as if Paul has much yet to say but has only a little space in his parchment. There are about 18 instructions found in 12 short verses. In verses 16-18 we find the familiar “Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in every situation.” In verses 21-22 we read, “Examine everything carefully and hang on to what is good. Avoid every kind of evil.” May we hear and apply these instructions to our faithful living, so that our spirit, body, and soul will be “intact and blameless” too on the day of the Lord.

Prayer: Lord God, as children of light, guide us to live in ways that are pleasing to you, that bring you glory. By the power of your Holy Spirit, strengthen and encourage us, build us up, and empower us to be good in the world. In all ways may light and love shine into the darkness and pain of our world. Amen.


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Faithful Witnesses

Reading: 1st Thessalonians 1-3

1st Thessalonians 2:2 – “We had the courage through God to speak God’s good news in spite of a lot of opposition.”

1st Thessalonians is written to encourage a church that is remaining faithful to God in spite of the persecution that they are facing. Paul encourages them to continue living grace-filled, loving lives of faith. The letter begins with thanksgiving. The church is demonstrating works, effort, and perseverance that comes through faith, hope, and love. The good news that Paul, Timothy, and Salvanus shared with them has been empowered by the Holy Spirit. Because of this, the church in Thessalonica has become an example to other churches and believers.

In chapter 2 Paul recalls their ministry in Thessalonica. He begins, “We had the courage through God to speak God’s good news in spite of a lot of opposition.” Perhaps this example has given strength to this church in their own suffering. Paul recalls their ministry as gentle. It was a joy to preach to and to live alongside them. The church saw how “holy, just, and blameless” Paul and companions were when amongst them. Paul remembers how they appealed to, encouraged, and pleaded with them to “live lives worthy of the God who is calling you.”

Paul then rejoices that the believers in Thessalonica are doing just that. He sees how they are imitators of the churches back in Judea – staying faithful even in their suffering. Paul expresses a longing to visit them again. But “Satan stopped us.” So he sent Timothy, who came back greatly encouraged by the faith of the Thessalonican church. This increases Paul’s desire to visit and it also increases his prayers for this church. Paul prays for strengthened hearts and for them to be “blameless in holiness.” Thus they will be ready when the Lord Jesus returns. May we be ready too!

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for this witness to faithful living. As we read of their faith, love, and hope in you, may these grow in our hearts. As we read of their good works and courageous endurance, may our faith be strengthened and encouraged. Build us up, O God, to be who and what you call us to be as witnesses to the good news of Jesus Christ. Amen.


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All Together

Reading: 1st Corinthians 10-12

1st Corinthians 10:31 – “Whatever you eat or drink or whatever you do, you should do it all for God’s glory.”

Paul begins today’s readings with a warning from the “wilderness generation.” They all passed through the sea, they all followed Moses, they all drank from the rock – and most sinned and were struck down in the wilderness. Paul is telling the church: don’t do what they did. He then encourages them, telling them that God will see them through and will provide a way out of temptation. He next re-emphasizes the danger of idolatry. One cannot split allegiances.

Paul then elevates the other over self. While all is permitted, all isn’t always beneficial, all doesn’t always build up. Paul instructs the Corinthians to first look out for one another when making choices and decisions. The overarching guidance should come from this admonition: “Whatever you eat or drink or whatever you do, you should do it all for God’s glory.”

In chapter 11 Paul addresses proper worship. Both of these sections lift other over self. Paul encourages proper dress in worship. Here Paul cites cultural norms as the guide for dress. He also points out that men and women are equal in the Lord. He then addresses the fellowship meal and the Lord’s Supper. One person overindulges and another goes hungry. This is not elevating other over self.

Spiritual gifts are the focus in chapter 12. All gifts are from the Holy Spirit and all gifts are given for “the common good.” Again, all above self. Paul then equates the church to the human body. All parts are needed and necessary. All gifts matter. God puts the body together in this way so that there is a “mutual concern” for one another. Accordingly, all suffer together and all celebrate together. May this mutuality be fully present in our lives and in our communities of faith.

Prayer: Lord God, again and again, in way after way, we hear the calls to love you and to love neighbor more than self. We’re reminded that you walk with us, strengthening and equipping us for the tasks and challenges. Thank you for your love and your presence, both abiding in our hearts in the Spirit. Amen.


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Glory to God!

Reading: Romans 14-16

Romans 14:19 – “So let’s strive for the things that bring peace and the things that build each other up.”

In chapter 14 Paul seeks to build unity and community. He encourages the believers to think of others before themselves. Paul encourages them to not judge another’s convictions about food or wine or sacred days. It is very interesting that he tells the more mature believers to not do this or that if it negatively impacts a new believer’s faith. We tend to do just the opposite, expecting others to be like us instead of meeting others where they are at. We would do well to heed his advice: “So let’s strive for the things that bring peace and the things that build each other up.” Paul reminds the Roman church and the church today: we all belong to the Lord.

Paul then extends these ideas beyond the body of believers. He directs the believers to “please our neighbors for their good in order to build them up.” He encourages them to welcome others just as Christ did. Paul asks God to fill them with joy and peace so that hope overflows by the power of the Holy Spirit. What a witness this would be to our faith in Jesus Christ.

The letter to the Romans closes with a look forward and with greetings to many people. Paul expresses a longing to visit Rome – after going to Jerusalem and on his way to missionary work in Spain. He seeks prayers for his visit to Jerusalem. He looks forward to coming to Rome, believing he will be “reenergized” by their faith. Paul introduces Phoebe, the likely deliverer and reader of the letter. He greets 26 people by name. 10 are women. Paul warns against those who create division and problems. He asks the God of peace to crush Satan, underneath their feet. Paul closes his letter by asking again and again, “May the glory be to God!” May it be so in our lives.

Prayer: Lord God, you call us to a faith that lifts and builds up. You warn us against judging and being arrogant about our faith. Help us to encourage others, to edify others, to lift others through our witness to you. May all we say and do bring glory to you! Amen.


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One Focus

Reading: Acts 15:22-17:34

Acts 16:31 – “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved – you and your entire household.”

The Jerusalem Council sends a letter to the church in Antioch, explaining their decision concerning circumcision… The church receives the letter with joy. Paul then decides to revisit places that he and Barnabas went to check in on and to encourage the believers. Paul and Barnabas part ways over John Mark’s inclusion. Paul and Silas head one way, Barnabas and Mark another way. Both go with the same mission, scattered more broadly into the world.

Paul becomes the main focus as we continue reading Acts. In Lystra, Paul meets Timothy, a young disciple with some promise. He joins Paul and Silas as they travel and encourage the believers. In a vision, Paul is called to Macedonia. In verse 10 we find Luke’s first “we” as he becomes part of the mission team. Paul and company travel to Philippi, where they meet Lydia and others at “a place of prayer.” She embraces Paul’s message and Lydia and her household are baptized. She welcomes Paul and his fellow missionaries into her home.

In Philippi, Paul and company also meet a slave girl possessed by a demon. For data she follows them proclaiming them to be servants of God who offer “a way of salvation.” Paul grows tired of her and casts out the demon. This leads her owners to stir up trouble. Paul and Silas are stripped, beaten, and thrown in jail. Through prayer and worship God comes and intervenes, leading to rescue and salvation for the jailer and his household. Moved toward faith, Paul tells the jailer, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved – you and your entire household.” Doing so, all are baptized into a saving faith. Paul and Silas are released.

As they travel to Thessalonica, Boroea, and eventually to Athens, a pattern emerges. Paul teaches in the synagogue (and sometimes other places), some people come to faith, the Jews get jealous and stir up trouble, and Paul and company flee to the next place. Paul adapts his message to his audience, develops relationships with some, drawing them to Christ. Some are jealous or angry or reject his message. Overall, God is at work and the church grows and spreads further out into the world.

Prayer: Lord God, as we read, we come to see Paul’s one focus: sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. He adapts, he pivots, he pushes on, he perseveres. His one focus led and guided all that he did and said. Fill us with the Holy Spirit; lead, guide, and empower us to keep the proclamation of the gospel as our one focus. Amen.


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Be Encouraged!

Reading: John 15 and 16

John 15:19 – “I have chosen you out of the world, and you don’t belong to the world. This is why the world hates you.”

“I am the vine; you are the branches.” We live in connection with Jesus. Without this connection we cannot produce fruit. Without connection we are trimmed and thrown into the fire. With connection we are nourished and fed and are able to produce much fruit, doing acts of love, kindness, mercy, forgiveness, generosity… – actions that grow the kingdom and make new disciples.

These actions are guided by the new commandment: “Love each other just as I have loved you.” Chosen by Jesus, filled with his Spirit, we are promised whatever we ask in his name. Yet following is not easy. There is a cost. In 15:19 Jesus says, “I have chosen you out of the world, and you don’t belong to the world. This is why the world hates you.” Because we are not of this world, we will be harassed, abused, persecuted. But we are not alone.

The Companion or Holy Spirit comes to us and speaks truth unto our hearts. It reminds us that we belong to God. These things empower us to speak words of truth to the world. Jesus promises that the Spirit will “take what is mine and proclaim it to you.” When the world harasses… the Spirit will strengthen and encourage us. This process will bring us joy.

The Spirit will come because Jesus is leaving. One’s physical presence will be replaced by the all-present Spirit. Yes, a time of desertion will come when the world strikes the shepherd and the sheep scatter. We too have times when we wander. So we too need to hear verse 33: “In the world you have distress. But be encouraged! I have conquered the world.” Because this is so, we too can conquer all things. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, empower us to remain in you. By the power of the Holy Spirit, defend and protect us from the lures and temptations of the world. With that same power, send us out into the world to share your love, building the kingdom, bearing much fruit. Amen.


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Many Are Healed

Reading: Mark 6

Mark 6:34 – “He had compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd. Then he began to teach them many things.”

Photo credit: Jennifer Araujo

Today’s readings begin in Nazareth, Jesus’ hometown. At first people were surprised by his teaching authority. But then they think, “Isn’t this [just] the carpenter? Isn’t he Mary’s son…?” These thoughts lead to a rejection of Jesus as Messiah. Their unbelief greatly limits his ability to heal. He departs and begins to minister in the surrounding villages. He sends out the 12 two by two. They teach, heal, and cast out demons. They return with excitement, with stories to share. Jesus decides to take them away to a quiet place to rest, but the crowds follow on shore. In between these two events Mark drops in the story of the death of John the Baptist. He does so to tell us that even the king has heard of Jesus.

After landing ashore we read, “He had compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd. Then he began to teach them many things.” After teaching all day in a remote place, the disciples ask Jesus to send the crowd away so they can buy food. Jesus tells the disciples to feed them. The impossible becomes reality as Jesus feeds the huge crowd from five loaves and two fish. So great is the blessing there are twelve baskets full of leftovers. After sending the 12 on ahead, Jesus dismisses the crowd and goes up the mountain to pray.

In the night the winds come up and the disciples are struggling along. Jesus walks across the lake. Mark notes, “intending to pass them by.” Why, why, why?! We’re left to ponder this. At first the disciples are afraid: is it a ghost? Jesus encourages them and then climbs in the boat. The wind dies down. They are “baffled” by this Jesus.

Our reading today closes in Gennesaret, a town close to Capernaum. The locals recognize Jesus and bring their sick to Jesus. Many are healed – even those that just touch his clothes. Jesus, through the Spirit, continues to bring healing and wholeness to our lives and to our world. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, you continue to have compassion for us, your children. We are so grateful. Yet today many are like the crowds – they know of you and your power but they don’t know you. Through the power of the Holy Spirit and through our witness, Lord, make Jesus known today. Bring healing and wholeness to our world. Amen.