Beyond the Weekend

August 19 | Dad

August 19, 2022

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.1 Thessalonians 2:11-12

Read: 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12
Listen: 
1 Thessalonians 2

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Greco-Roman fathers were expected to provide for their children’s education, training and moral instruction. Jewish fathers made sure their children knew the Scriptures and Law. We might say they were like a family coach.

Becoming a Jesus-follower means we gain a spiritual family. Earthly families can be complicated. They may not always be a loving and nurturing place. But Paul shows the Thessalonians that the family of God is a place of love, nurturing and growth. He describes himself as a spiritual father who encourages, comforts and urges. Paul coaches the Thessalonians to keep going in their faith. Watch this video clip as Pastor Jeff Manion teaches, “often people move because someone encourages them to get moving.”

We may not be physical dads, but as spiritual dads we can encourage, comfort and urge our family members in many ways. (1) We stay connected and participate in a small group and services. (2) We invite others to join a small group or return to attending services regularly. (3) We help someone take a step toward getting counsel in an area of need.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Pray and ask God, “Open my eyes to the spiritual needs of those around me and help me give them the encouragement and support they need to move forward. Help me be open to the encouragement others offer me to grow spiritually. Amen.”


2022 BIBLE MEMORY PRACTICE

Develop spiritual roots and tap in the power of God’s word by memorizing monthly a Bible verse! View previous verses at beyondtheweekend.org/biblememorypractice.

PROVERBS 3:5–6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

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