July 7, 2016

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (part two) NKJV - "Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing."

Commentary:

The 2nd part of this study on our Daily Verse is to point out the word "edify."  The Greek word here describes "someone in the act of building," that is similar to someone building a house.  Interesting, isn't it?  Paul uses the term "comfort," the same word used for the Holy Spirit, and the word "edify" the same word Jesus used in Matthew 16:18 when He said, "I will build my Church."  Paul is saying that we join the Lord in these ministries.

Edifying someone is encouraging their spiritual growth.  it is helping them to know how to put Biblical truth into Biblical action.  It is helping them learn some aspect of Christianity that they will be able to apply to their own lives in the future.  You might say the word "comfort" is like giving a hungry person "a fish."  "Edify" is helping a hungry person "learn how to fish."  It is helping the person in need become a helper to others.

As the Lord uses others to "build you up" in your faith with knowledge and practical advice, He desires to use you in the same way.  Why not pray right now and see if God will direct you to someone you can "comfort" and "edify."