We have been encouraged

WE HAVE BEEN ENCOURAGED

“…So we have been greatly encouraged in the midst of our troubles and suffering, dear brothers and sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith.”  (1 Thessalonians 3:7 NLT)

1. Life will never stop presenting difficulties.
2. It is possible to have encouragement in the midst of suffering.
3. The fruit of our labor produces us encouragement.

We can feel like failures when we don’t see results, but when we are winning the match we feel encouraged to keep playing, even when we feel beat or tired.
Apostle Paul felt strengthened when he received news that his work with the Thessalonian people had not been in vain.
I imagine that he thought something similar to this “Man, ministry is truly worth it. Seeing the lives of these families transformed encourages me to move forward, regardless if others criticize me.”
It’s worth carefully observing the seeds that we have planted, and it is likely that we will see many people who have given fruit, marriages that have been enriched, young people transformed, children who have benefited from a home free of violence and alcohol, etc.
Come on! Let us continue to be encouraged as we see that many of our brothers remain firm in the faith.

It gives us new life to know that you are standing firm in the Lord.
 (1 Thessalonians 3:8 NLT)

Our work has not been in vain!

Think about it:
Do you think it is possible to feel encouraged in the midst of difficulties?
What makes you feel encouraged in those difficult moments?
How does it make you feel when you see fruit in your job or ministry?