John D Risser

“Now also we beseech you, brethren, get to know those who labor among you [recognize them for what they are, acknowledge and appreciate and respect them all]— your leaders who are over you in the Lord and those who warn and kindly reprove and exhort you. And hold them in very high and most affectionate esteem in [intelligent and sympathetic] appreciation of their work. Be at peace among yourselves” (1Th 5:12-13 Amplified).

Christians seem increasingly worried these days. Quarreling and bickering in the churches appear on the increase. Doctoring for depression and emotional health are rising significantly. Peace and joy seem obviously absent in the lives of far too many professing followers of Christ. Few people are deficit of needs or even wants, yet contentment is lacking. Is the situation without hope? Is the availability of Holy Spirit power depleted? Does the current environment of which Christians find themselves part render them unable to live and think different then their ungodly counterparts?