The Circle of Life.
That’s from a 1994 children’s film. It means that what goes around comes around. One thing turns into another, and we can’t stop the process.
Living. Dying. All of it. We have no control over any of it.
Yet, within the circle, 1 Thessalonians 5:14 gives us four strong admonitions:
“We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone.”
There is much more to the Christian life, but these are a good start. Master these, and you can be certain, inside or outside the church, your life will be off to a good start.
Admonition No. 1:
Admonish the unruly. Note that this one is first. If someone is out of line, it’s vital to get the situation under control. People can be pulled astray.
Admonition No. 2:
Encourage the fainthearted. The problems of life will distract people. Depression will weaken their commitment to the church. Build them up with good words and even better deeds.
Admonition No. 3:
Help the weak. This means emotionally, financially, physically. Make a connection with them. Partner with them. Be there for them when they cannot be there for themselves.
Admonition No. 4:
Be patient with everyone. Harsh words do no good. They drive people away. Kindness, generosity, these are outstanding, but love is demonstrated most strongly through patience.
One, two, three, four. East, south, west, north. You, me, them, us. Christ, the church, the world, salvation. What goes around comes around. The Circle of Life becomes complete.
Amen, come quickly, Jesus.
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