COMFORT EACH OTHER

"Wherefore comfort one another with these words." - 1 Thessalonians 4:18

The last few months have been difficult for my church family.  Two members from our small congregation have graduated to glory in the last two months.  Both were active, vital members of our congregation.  They will be missed greatly.

These events have reminded us that life is temporary.  Furthermore, we've been reminded that pain and sorrow comes to everyone, including Christians. 

When Paul wrote his first letter to the church at Thessalonica, he addressed the issue of death.  No doubt, many Christian deaths in the early church were due to persecution.  Others died of natural causes.  Regardless of the circumstances, the death of someone dear was a heartbreaking incident for the new believers at Thessalonica.

Paul wrote the Thessalonians to reassure them that a bodily resurrection will occur when Jesus returns.  As he concludes his remarks on the subject, Paul told them, "Wherefore comfort one another with these words."

I believe that Christians in the 21st century need to heed Paul's words.  This is a time when comfort is needed.  As we ponder Paul's words, there are three things I want to share with you.

1.  THE SIGNIFIGANCE OF OUR COMFORT

First of all, we need to understand that pain, suffering, and death are part of this life.  People of faith are not immune to heartbreak.  We are not excluded from grief.  As a result, comfort is needed.  First of all, we need to offer comfort.  We are called to minister to the needs of our brothers and sisters.  These days, I see too much isolation among professing believers.  Far too many live independent of a church family and, as a result, fail to minister to real needs around them. 

Secondly, there will be times when we'll need to receive comfort.  Death is not a respecter of persons.  If you live very long in life, death will impact your life.  When a member of your family dies, it is important to receive comfort from those at your church.  When you live isolated from a church family, you are causing yourself significant harm.  The local church is vital, because a church family is there to lovingly comfort you when you need it most. 

2.  THE SCOPE OF OUR COMFORT

Notice that Paul wrote, "Comfort one another..."  Selfishness keeps many from helping those who need it most.  It is important for us to be sensitive to the needs of those around us. 

Love should be the motivation of our ministry to others.  We should help those who need it most because of love for Jesus and love for them.  We are His hands reaching out to them.  We are His feet, moving to help them. 

3.  THE SOURCE OF OUR COMFORT

Finally, Paul wrote to comfort one another, "... with these words."  Paul wrote his epistle to the Thessalonians under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.  Thus, the words he wrote were God's words.  I am convinced that the only source of comfort is God Himself.  His Word gives us promises we can rely on.  God's Word gives us guidance for the road ahead.  His Word gives us peace in the midst of the storm.  God's Word offers us hope and help during times of discouragement and devastation.

Furthermore, God's Word is the Spirit's sword.  The Holy Spirit uses God's Word to impact our lives.  Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as "the Comforter."  It is wonderful to have a helper who lives within.  He gives us the comfort we need so much.   

Death is certain for all of us.  In this life, the future often seems bleak.  It is glorious to know that the Christian can look up with hope.  Our future is as bright as the promises of God.  For us, the best is yet to come!

Comfort one another with these words!