How can we support others' faith during their trials, like Paul did? Setting the Scene “For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, fearing that in some way the tempter had tempted you and our labor might have been in vain.” (1 Thessalonians 3:5) Paul’s Example: What Did He Actually Do? • Chose personal sacrifice—stayed in Athens alone so Timothy could go (1 Thessalonians 3:1–2) • Sent a trusted brother who would strengthen and encourage (1 Thessalonians 3:2) • Checked on their faith, not just their circumstances (1 Thessalonians 3:5) • Acknowledged spiritual attack by “the tempter” (1 Thessalonians 3:5) • Kept praying “night and day” (1 Thessalonians 3:10) • Wrote a heartfelt, Scripture-saturated letter Key Principles We Can Imitate Today • Be willing to inconvenience ourselves for another believer’s spiritual good • Send real people, not merely thoughts or posts—presence matters • Ask directly about faith: “How are you and Jesus right now?” • Recognize trials include unseen warfare; address both the practical and the spiritual • Keep praying consistently, not just once Practical Ways to Support Someone’s Faith in Trial • Check in quickly and personally – Phone, visit, video call—whatever allows true conversation • Share Scripture that anchors hope – 2 Corinthians 1:3–4: “He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble…” • Bear burdens together – Galatians 6:2: “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” • Encourage regular fellowship – Hebrews 10:24–25: “…not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another…” • Pray aloud with them – James 5:16: “Pray for one another so that you may be healed.” • Celebrate any evidence of grace you see – Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” • Provide practical help that frees their mind to seek God – Meals, childcare, errands—simple acts that echo 1 John 3:18 Guarding Against the Tempter • Remind them of Christ’s victory – 1 John 4:4: “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” • Equip them with the armor of God – Ephesians 6:10–18: truth, righteousness, gospel peace, faith, salvation, Word, prayer • Stand with them in accountability – Ecclesiastes 4:12: “…a cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Scripture Passages to Share in Times of Trial • Psalm 46:1–3—God as refuge and strength • Isaiah 41:10—“Do not fear, for I am with you.” • John 16:33—Christ has overcome the world • 2 Timothy 1:7—Spirit of power, love, and self-control • 1 Peter 5:10—God Himself will restore, confirm, strengthen, establish Sustaining Care Over Time • Schedule follow-ups; don’t assume one conversation is enough • Send written encouragement (texts, emails, cards) packed with Scripture like Paul’s letters • Invite them to serve alongside you when they’re able—service often rekindles faith • Keep their name before the Lord daily, trusting Him for the long haul Putting It into Practice This Week 1. Identify one believer facing a trial. 2. Reach out today—ask about their faith specifically. 3. Share one verse from the list above; read it together. 4. Pray with them on the spot. 5. Note a date for the next check-in and follow through. |
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