Joseph Priestly left college believing he was called to serve God as a minister. However, he soon became uncomfortable with this calling and decided to teach school. One day Benjamin Franklin visited his classroom and was very impressed with his teaching skills. At the conclusion of the class he said to Priestly, “I believe that you have the abilities to write a history of electricity. I’ll help you by lending you my books and notes.”

Encouraged by the generosity of Mr. Franklin, he accepted the challenge and immediately began writing a book on the history of electricity. He was so enthusiastic and excited about this project that he researched and wrote the entire book in one year. This inspired him to dedicate his life to scientific research. His research led him to the discovery of oxygen. He is also credited with developing the first carbon dioxide fire extinguisher.

Paul recognized the important role of encouraging others. In his letter to the Thessalonians he encouraged them to “encourage each other and build each other up!”

At the end of a long race the runners often speak of muscles that are cramping or throats that are parched and burning as their body is about to collapse. But then the crowd begins to shout, “You can do it - keep it up - you are going to make it!” Those few words of encouragement are all they need to finish well.

Prayer: Help us, Heavenly Father, to be alert to those around us who need a word of strength, hope or love to persevere in the face of adversity. Make us Your encouragers. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.

Ernesto Malinowski was a builder of railroads in South America. He was once a member of a group that was asked about the possibility of building a railroad through the Andes Mountains in Peru. After much debate and discussion all of the engineers, except 72-year-old Malinowski, said it could not be done. But he prevailed, and a railroad was built connecting the inland cities and natural resources with the coastal cities and shipping ports.

This project included 62 tunnels and 30 bridges and was stopped twice because of war. In spite of it all - those who believed it could not be done, the difficult terrain, the conflict - Malinowski persisted and prevailed against overwhelming odds and succeeded. He would not compromise his convictions.

Standing firm in our loyalty to Christ and not giving in to the pressures of the world is often difficult. The author of Hebrews had this in mind when he wrote "sometimes you were exposed to public ridicule." Then he continued, "But trust in the Lord and remember the great reward it brings you!"

Endurance and faithfulness bring God's reward.

Prayer: Help us, Father, to stand firm in our faith and to be God-honoring and Christ exalting in all that we do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture: Hebrews 10:32-36