Reformed Doctrine Daily Devotions

Today’s devotion comes from Acts 28:11-15.

“At the end of three months we set sail on an Alexandrian ship which had wintered at the island, and which had the Twin Brothers for its figurehead.  After we put in at Syracuse, we stayed there for three days.  From there we sailed around and arrived at Rhegium, and a day later a south wind sprang up, and on the second day we came to Puteoli.  There we found some brethren, and were invited to stay with them for seven days; and thus we came to Rome.  And the brethren, when they heard about us, came from there as far as the Market of Appius and Three Inns to meet us;  and when Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.”  Acts 28:11-15.

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The brethren came to see Paul and encouraged Paul.

Thus, Biblical encouragement is not one-sided.  Paul was not the only one giving encouragement.  In today’s Scripture, we read:  “when Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.”  Verse 15.  Believers encourage one another and build up one another.

Biblical encouragement is not flattery. 

“A man who flatters his neighbor
Is spreading a net for his steps.”  Proverbs 26:5.

“He who rebukes a man will afterward find more favor
Than he who flatters with the tongue.”  Proverbs 28:23.

Biblical encouragement is showing faith to give another believer courage to continue living by faith.  “that is, that I may be encouraged together with you while among you, each of us by the other’s faith, both yours and mine.”  Romans 1:12.

“We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren, as is only fitting, because your faith is greatly enlarged, and the love of each one of you toward one another grows ever greater;  therefore, we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure.”  2 Thessalonians 1:3-4.

Thus, the purpose of Hebrews chapter 11, the “Hall of Fame of Faith” chapter of Bible , is not primarily to honor those therein.  Rather, the purpose of Hebrews chapter 11 is to encourage one another and build up one another, so as to to give courage to one another to continue living by faith, “each of us by the other’s faith, both yours and mine.”

“Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing.”  1 Thessalonians 5:11.

Finally and ultimately, it is the work of God to give encouragement so that together we can glorify God.  “Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, so that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  Romans 15:5-6.