July 6
The Lord
Will Come
1 Thessalonians 4:18
Therefore encourage one another with these words.
Daily Steps
The study of prophecy, resurrection, and Christ’s return is not meant to be a purely academic exercise, but a source of power for daily life. This single verse provides the new believer with the immediate, practical purpose of all eternal hope (Day 187): encourage one another with these words.
The peace in this command is found in shared assurance:
The Source of Encouragement: The "these words" refer directly to the preceding truths—the certainty of Christ's spectacular return, the resurrection of believers, and the guarantee of being with the Lord forever (Day 187). This eternal consolation is the greatest possible source of comfort in a temporary, suffering world.
The Command to Share: The instruction is to "encourage one another." This is an act of love (Day 162) and fellowship (Day 163) that actively fights against isolation and fear. When we remind each other of our guaranteed future, we strengthen the peace and resilience of the entire community.
The Result is Tranquility: Sharing this future certainty transforms the way believers face grief, loss, and present trials. The grief remains, but it is tempered by a powerful hope. This mutual strengthening prevents despair and secures inner tranquility by lifting your eyes from the temporary difficulty to the eternal reward.
Your peace in the unseen world is secured by mutual encouragement. Share the words of eternal hope with others, for by comforting them, you solidify your own consolation and peace.
Reflective Question
Who in your life is currently experiencing grief, loss, or deep discouragement? What is one specific sentence from the verses about Christ's return (Day 187: "The Lord himself will come down...") can you use today to genuinely encourage them?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I thank You for the great consolation of eternity. I pray for the compassion and courage to obey Your command: encourage one another with these words.
Help me to be a voice of hope and assurance today, reminding others and myself of the guaranteed resurrection and our eternal life with You. Secure my peace in the joy of sharing this ultimate truth. Amen.
