Our Scripture reading today is 1 Thessalonians 5:14, "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men."
As I read this verse, it reminded me that not everyone should be spoken to the same way. We all have shortcomings and sins in our lives that need to be addressed and confessed. The challenge is what to say to one another and how to say it. If we say nothing, we are doing our brothers and sisters a disservice and not showing true love for them. In the case of preaching, we read in 2 Timothy 4:2, "Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine." It is possible for us to take a similar approach to being a challenge and help to those whom we influence.
The last phrase of the verse is to be remembered regardless of the who we are leading. Patience in the home and church are of the utmost importance. Think of how many people who were patient with you before and after you became a Christian. Not only that, but God has been longsuffering and patient with us time and time again. Now is not the time to give up on someone. Take time today to pray for God's wisdom in how you can better serve those whom you influence.