By Lisa Wilmore
Scripture: Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words (I Thessalonians 4:13-18 NIV).
Dear Hearts,
It may have become increasingly difficult not to be concerned about love ones who are sick or have been exposed to this dreadful disease during this time of our lives. Since the death toll is high and may have claimed family members in your households, it may leave you wondering where the encouragement in all of the turmoil is. Well, there is always encouragement in the Word of God.
Interestingly, we hear the above noted passage of scripture at funerals or home going celebrations. It is definitely an encouraging Word! As I read the passage of scripture penned in the Book of Thessalonians, I was definitely encouraged by Paul’s comforting words to the Thessalonians. One commentary writer records, “The Thessalonians wondered why many of their fellow believers had died and what would happen to them when Christ returned. Paul wanted them to know that death is not the end of the story.” (LAB). No, it is not, Paul! So, comfort your love ones with what the Word of God teaches us about His coming back with a shout and that the dead in Christ rising first (Thessalonians. 4).
Let us pray: Lord, we thank you for Your comfort and encouraging Word. You knew that we would need written words to reflect upon-which would encourage us when we go through wearisome times in our lives. You have given us what we need. Therefore, we thank You. Thank You for helping us through the adversities of this world as well as our sorrows, pains and heartaches. We love You, Lord.
In Jesus’ Name we Pray! Amen.
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