Rejoice ALWAYS

1 Thessalonians 5:12-17

         Here is the church, here is the steeple, open the door and see all the people!  How many of us remember that happy hand routine?  Once the hands open, do you think the steeple becomes the pastor standing in front of the congregation?

            In today’s scripture, Paul speaks to new believers about how to treat leaders in the church. The body of Christ is the church and Jesus has promised to build and bless His church.  Jesus is the head of the church and each one of us is a vital part of this body.  Within the body, there are followers of Jesus but it is the leaders of the church that need held in highest regard because of the work they do for the body.

How might any one of us mistreat leaders in our church?  Keep in mind the church is striving to bring to God a redeemed people.  For this reason, Satan operates as the church's biggest enemy searching to orchestrate forces that undermine Christ.  He can simply rely on our pride and sinful nature to succeed.  We tend to judge pastors on their personality and charm rather than appreciate their diligent labor and sacrifice.  While many of us are not willing to speak openly about our love for God, we share gossip and criticism about those who stand before us each Sunday to lead our worship.

 

          As followers of Christ, we should be grateful for all people who make up the church body.  Encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone, strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.  Live in peace with one another.

          Rejoice always.  Pray continually!