To Make Us Strong #4 — Strengthening Words

Paul and Barnabas strengthened the souls of the disciples by reminding them to continue in the faith and to enter the Kingdom of God through the many unavoidable tribulations they will encounter. … Silas encouraged and strengthened the brethren with a lengthy message. Acts 14:22; 15:32

One of the goals for communication in the Church is strong souls, because people with strong souls are those who will graciously and lovingly persevere through many difficulties to finally enter the Kingdom of God. God uses words from other believers to accomplish this goal, especially messages about “the faith,” i.e. messages about his plans for his people, messages about how his people should live in relationship with him and with one another, and messages about what he has done on their behalf already. Messages from God strengthen us because they increase our joy in God and our awareness of obstacles to that joy. They tell us of the infinite, unexcelled and irreplaceable worth of God. They explain to us God’s overflowingly joyful grace. They fill our hearts with the knowledge of his righteousness and faithfulness in keeping his promises. They expand our understanding of how eagerly he works to overcome obstacles to our experience of his goodness. They cause us to realize what truly pleases him and how we can join in that pleasure. “The joy of the Eternal is our strength.”

Thank you, Father, for your concern that my faith be strong. Lead me to those who speak your truth, open my ears to your messages, and fill my heart with your joy in Jesus’ name.