Someone "with skin on"
READ: 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:5
A little boy was woken up in his bedroom one night by a storm. His little eyes opened wide and he quickly scampered into his parent's room. He told his parents that the loud noises outside were really scaring him. His parents then told their frightened son that he never needs to worry. God is always with us, He sends his angels to take care of us and He has all control of the world and its weather. The boy said, "I know that is true, that God is watching over me, but I just need someone with skin on."
How true this is. If you've ever had a really hard time, prayer is great and reading the Bible really helps but having someone "with skin on" to hold your hand, to look at you with understanding eyes, maybe even give you a hug if you need it----this really hits the spot.
Paul must have understood this too. He loved the people he had ministered to in Thessalonia. He knew that these baby Christians would be facing trials and temptations, stressing and stretching their faith. Paul knew that they could use some encouragement right about then. He could have let a letter be enough, or his prayers for them. But God allowed him to be able to send his friend Timothy who was able to make the trip to strengthen and encourage the new Thessalonian Christians.
So think about it in your life. Do you have someone who is a cheerleader for you? When your faith is being tested, do they lead you to wisdom, understanding and strength in the Lord. If you do have friends like this, thank the Lord and them for being a real help to you. If you can't think of anyone who is a cheerleader in the faith for you, ask God to send you someone, "with skin on" to be your Christian friend. And maybe you are, or can be, that cheerleader for another friend as well.
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: How does understanding that God works through us to help others give us special direction, purpose, and meaning in life?
PRAYER SUGGESTIONS: Thank God for all those people that encourage you in faith and hold Jesus' work and promises steadily before your eyes. Ask God for the strength to be an encourager, a truth-giver, to those around you.