Be at peace among yourselves. – 1 Thessalonians 5:13
It is disheartening to hear about conflict, but it is especially disappointing when it occurs among the people of God. The apostle Paul is addressing the relatively new congregation in Thessalonica in today’s verse. He offers both encouraging and preemptive words of wisdom for unity within the assembly of believers that hold well for congregations today. Reading 1 Thessalonians 5:12 and 13 together offers a broader picture: “We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves.”
Paul is making a plea to those in this assembly to respect their leaders. The implication is that those who labor in the work of the Lord should be supported both morally and materially with kindness and helpfulness by those they serve. The union of believers brings together people of varying backgrounds who must strive to live peaceably together, loving each other and holding their leaders in high regard. The peace of right relationships between leaders and members gives glory to God and lifts His Word as a shining light to those around.
The spirit of peace and harmony among believers flows from hearts that love the Lord and do deeds of kindness. Pray now that the peace that is evident in your life, and in the lives of people of faith in public office in this nation, may draw many to the light of God’s Word.
Today’s Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:13
and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-23
12 We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. 15 See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.
23 Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
