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Read: 1 Thessalonians 5:6-11
Listen: 1 Thessalonians 5

So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:6

In this passage, Paul tells the church in Thessalonica two times that these truths are to make a difference in their lives. He does not tell them about the end times so they can debate how the world will end, develop differing theological opinions or conduct lengthy talks about the next life. The words “So the” and “Therefore” make clear that what Christians believe about these things should affect how they live. Their confidence in the second coming of Christ is to be a source of hope and encouragement in their daily lives. Their lives should be different because Jesus is coming back, and they know it! This knowledge should motivate them to live differently.

So it should be for us as well. Being “awake” and “sober” gives us the opportunity to live with faith, hope and love, three things that will matter into eternity. When our lives are marked by faith, hope and love, others see what following Jesus really looks like. We have a hope they will want. As we live out this hope, we will “encourage one another and build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

TODAY: Today’s passage calls us to encourage others (v. 11) in light of Christ’s work in us (vv. 6-10). We live in a world where it is easy to be discouraged and defeated. But the return of Christ is our motivation to make a difference. Who do you need to encourage? Who do you need to build up? Write them a note or send them a text. Don’t let the weekend go by without doing this.

Looking for tools to share the Gospel confidently in your everyday interactions? We have a 90-minute course on May 29 available. Don’t hesitate to equip yourself—register for Sharing Your Faith!