1 THESSALONIANS 2:3

“For our exhortation does not come from error or impurity or by way of deceit;” 

Today’s verse includes a word that is so important to our faith in the Lord.  It’s the word “exhortation.” But it doesn’t just mean to exhort and encourage. Oh, there is so much more. The Greek word is paráklēsis, which is an “intimate call” that someone personally gives to deliver God’s verdict. It’s a holy urging used of the Lord to directly motivate and inspire believers to carry out His plan.

The Holy Spirit is called the Paraclete, which comes directly from this word.  Now, I know I am getting a little deep today, but you need to understand this. This is why Paul can say “our exhortation does not come from error or impurity or by way of deceit.” It’s from God through the Holy Spirit, who cannot contain any error or impurity or deceit.

APPLICATION

So, let me ask you, “how do you exhort someone?” Is your exhorting given to you by the Holy Spirit? Or do you simply spout off your own exhortation? Teach your children to speak truth given to them solely by the Paraclete. He will speak through them, if they will let Him. He will be the one to encourage someone to give their lives to Christ. 

We must teach our children to be encouragers. They need to learn to “come alongside” others. They need to be a friend to the friendless, a comforter to the hurting. And that is possible only through the power of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

Do you struggle encouraging others? Well, perhaps you are doing it out of your own strength. That can be draining physically, emotionally and spiritually. Surrender today to the Holy Spirit’s power in your life. He will perform the impossible through a willing vessel.

Chief Exhorter, use me to bring encouragement and comfort to others. Show me those around me who need Your words. Let me be use today to put someone on the right path.