Brave Together - All Our Daily Bread Daily Devotionals for 2025

Bible in a Year : Isaiah 1-2, Galatians 5

Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
1 Thessalonians 5:11

Today's Scripture & Insight : 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

“Be of good comfort, Mr. Ridley, and play the man! We shall this day light such a candle by God’s grace, in England, as I trust never shall be put out.” With these, his last words on earth, Hugh Latimer encouraged his friend Nicolas Ridley. Both men were burned at the stake in the 16th century for teaching Bible-based Christianity—the “candle” they hoped would “never be put out”.

It is hard to say exactly what made them brave enough to face something so terrifying. But what we do know is that they approached their end together, prayerfully reminding each other of God’s promises.

Similarly, Paul’s first letter to the church at Thessalonica was a call to collective bravery in the face of “severe suffering” (1 Thessalonians 1:6). Church members were frequently attacked by the surrounding, hostile community for their faith.

Paul focused on their future hope, including their shared destiny where they would “live together with [Christ]” (5:10). He then told them to “encourage one another and build each other up” (v. 11). Essentially, he was saying, “We know where we’re going; let’s go there together!”

Whether or not we face such fierce opposition, we will still be scorned and rejected for our faith. Alone, our resolve can quickly fail. God has put us in families of His people so that we might stand together, remind each other of our hope, and find courage to endure.

By: Chris Wale

Reflect & Pray
What situations are you facing that require extra resolve and bravery? Who could you ask to stand with you in prayer? And who needs you to come alongside them right now?

Thank You, Father, for my local family of believers. In my trials, please unite me with Your people so that I will be strengthened and encouraged by Your love and reassurance shown through them.