Let us continue to encourage to love another. These words from 1 John 4:1a may take some thought. What does NOT take thought, especially in a hot moment, is how NOT encourage one another. A jab there. A snap there. Most of us can deliver a sting in seconds.
When we do have time to think and then respond, John’s words remain our best course of action. Particularly, we can focus on the word ‘continue.’ We’re not just encouraging to love each other; we are continuing to do so.
According to John, this continuation is a notion for the motion to keep on moving head positively, even peacefully. It is not the only option, but it is the best one.
APPLICATION: Sometimes it is not easy to encourage. Sometimes stern words need to be shared. Sometimes nothing needs to be said. Think about it though. Slam or celebrate someone? The greater good is always to cheer, not jeer, love, not lash out.