POST SCRIPTS!

POST SCRIPTS!

1 Thess 5:14-23

14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.

15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.

16 Rejoice evermore.

17 Pray without ceasing.

18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

19 Quench not the Spirit.

20 Despise not prophesyings.

21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.

23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

          Merriam – Webster says that a “postscript” is a note or series of notes added at the end of a letter, article, or book or an additional fact or piece of information about a story that occurs after the main part. This is the sense of the last few verses of Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians. The main body of the message is done but there is so much yet to be said. One gets the image of someone waiting at a train station with all the grit and steam pouring from the engine. The shrill whistle blows and the conductor pulls his watch from his vest pocket. There is time only for a short list of advice before a final goodbye.

Ø Warn those who are out of order and are causing turmoil in the body.

Ø The idea of comforting the feeble minded is unfortunate because of its meaning today. The best sense of this advice is to “encourage the fainthearted.” We should encourage those who despair in the face of adverse circumstances.

Ø Support the weak. Give those who are spiritually frail a helping hand.

Ø Be patient toward all men. You will need it! Expect people to challenge your patience.

Ø Be aware of the ministry and presence of the Holy Spirit and revere Him as divine. Do not frustrate His efforts to guide and empower you. Don’t rebel.

Ø If it even “looks” like evil – leave it alone.

Ø Actively and purposefully run after that which is good.

Ø The result is that the God of Peace will set you apart for his own enjoyment and purposes. Another benefit is that you will enjoy peace and fulfillment.

Dear Lord, time is short. Let us pay heed to this short list of advice. AMEN