byHave you ever read the first Epistle of Paul to the Thessalonians? It’s such an insightful book full of short instructions, especially in chapter 5. Today, I briefly want to talk about one of them in this article. That is, “warn those who are idle and disruptive,” as written in 1 Thessalonians 5:14. Before we look at the scripture and delve deeper, please note that those instructions were directed towards believers in Christ, not just anybody.
“And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:14 (NIV)
Idle Christians
To be idle means to be lazy. Isn’t it? If scripture cautions believers in Christ against idleness, then obviously, there are some idle Christians in this world. Such people don’t like to work, and most of them are unwilling to change. Yet, they want what people have laboured for. If you have such a friend, it’s best to withdraw from him. You may ask, but why? Because there is no association without influence. If there are idle believers in your life who always talk against the work of the ministry, their corporate work, and all that, you can become like them.
God loves unity but doesn’t advocate uniformity. He made each person unique so that they would shine for His glory in their uniqueness.
I don’t believe there is a perfect company or ministry in the world where human resource management and workload sharing are perfectly demarcated. No! Problems arise occasionally, and once people are involved, there will be complaints. But remember, God did not call you to add issues to where He helped you get your work. Your addition to that team should bring relief instead of pain. So, when a problem arises, you must have the courage to solve it, rather than turning on an idle attitude. Some employers will note that behaviour, and it can cost you your job.
Disruptive Christians
While idleness is condemned by scripture, disruptions are another behaviour not to be entertained among believers. These are the people who cause strife and differences among people. They are everywhere. But that attitude is not good. It is one thing to use your differences to enhance the impact of what you do or where you belong, and another to become disruptive with your attitude. God loves unity but doesn’t advocate uniformity. He made each person unique so that they would shine for His glory in their uniqueness. Celebrate what others have, but don’t wish to be like them. You are different.
To conclude, please be mindful of your friends in Christ. Warn those who are idle and disruptive that they should change their ways.
You are a blessing!
