Strengthening and Encouraging One Another

1 Thessalonians 3:1-3

F.B. Meyer once wrote that “If I had my life to live over, I would spend more time encouraging others.”[1] No one is immune to the need for encouragement from time to time. One kind or caring word can change a person’s disposition in an instant. In order to encourage someone, it does involve focusing not on ourselves, but on another person. In fact, it might involve a cost of our own time, money, or comfort. Paul is an example for us today of the importance of taking time to encourage others, especially in their faith. Being a Christian is not always easy, and so it is important to take time to strengthen and encourage one another.

At the end of chapter 2, Paul expressed his heart’s desire to see the Thessalonians again. When he was last there, persecution affected Paul and all the believers. The persecution was so severe that Paul and Silas had to leave. In 1 Thessalonians 3:1-3, we learn that Paul was willing to send his beloved Timothy to visit them. It is thought that many had accused Paul of coming and then quickly deserting the Thessalonians. Whether this is true or not, Paul clearly pictures his care for them in being willing to be left alone to check on them. In fact, he states that he could “endure” it no longer.

“The word endure means “to bear or stand up under.” The Thessalonians’ situation was so important to him that he thought it best to depart from his usual mode of team ministry and stay alone in Athens. ”[2] 

The purpose of the visit was more than a simple checkup. Paul sent Timothy to both strengthen and encourage them in their faith. First, he was to strengthen (stērízō), which means to set something fast and firmly. Next, he was also to encourage (parakaléō), which means to aid, help, and comfort. The Thessalonians’ situation was likely difficult, much like what Paul and Silas experienced. Paul knew the importance of Timothy doing both of these, especially for those enduring times of difficulty.

“Timothy's mission was to strengthen and encourage the new Christians in their faith so that the persecution that they were experiencing would not discourage them excessively. Actually it is God who provides strength and encouragement through His servants (2 Thess. 3:3).”[3]

No one is immune to the need for encouragement from time to time, especially as we go through times of difficulty. Like Paul, we need to be selfless and sacrificial to both strengthen and encourage each other. Why not find someone to strengthen and encourage today?

Lord, we live in a world that is often draining and discouraging. Help me to express brotherly love by strengthening and encouraging others in their faith. Being a Christian is not always easy. Help me to reflect the Lord Jesus to someone in need today. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Steven

[1] Roy B. Zuck. The Speaker’s Quote Book, pg. 166.

[2] Mike Stallard. 1 & 2 Thessalonians, pg. 46.

[3] Constable’s Expository Notes. 1 Thessalonians – 2025 Edition.