The Promise

Written By Betty Predmore

1 THESSALONIANS 4:1 - 5:3

(October 11)

When my kids do something that I think is awesome ... like keeping their grades up, showing manners and respect, doing chores without being asked, ... I always try to praise them in the hopes of encouraging them to "keep it up". I want them to know I see their efforts, I appreciate them, and to continue on the same course would be a good thing.

Encouraging words go a long way in motivating others. Paul was so good at being an encourager. He speaks to these new believers with kindness and uplifting words, wanting to spur them to continue to live lives that are pleasing to God, and warning them to be aware of the things (like sexual sin) that will pull them back into sinful ways.

These people have a question that they have been pondering ... what happens to those who have already died when Christ returns?

Paul expresses to them that death is not the end of the journey, and that those who have passed on will still be able to live eternally with Christ, reuniting with those who were still alive.

Paul wanted them to find comfort and encouragement when a loved one passed, knowing they would be reunited with them again in Heaven. According to Paul, when Christ chose to return, he would first lift up all those who were "sleeping" and then those who were still alive. Together they would rise to Heaven, where there is no more pain, sorrow, or sin.

Of course, this brought the next question ... When will this happen? Inquiring minds wanted to know. My inquiring mind would love to know. However, not one of us get that inside scoop. As Paul stated, he will come "like a thief in the night", at a time that only he knows.

I get this image of Jesus sneaking in the window in the middle of the night and whispering, "Get up girl. Tonight is the night. There are some special people waiting for you at my house and they are ready to give you a big hug! Don't worry ... I've got you. No, you don't need shoes or a jacket. I am all you need. This is going to be the best day of your life!"

Or something like that ...

My vision might be a little off, but I know it will be beautiful. I know that all the anxiety, fear, anger, and any other negative emotion that has plagued me will be stripped away and there will be nothing but joy, love and peace. I know that because Jesus says so. And THAT is THE PROMISE of all promises!

Betty Predmore

Betty Predmore is a writer, blogger, speaker and ministry leaders. She is the founder of Mom-Sense, Inc., a ministry designed for mentorship, connection and service to women of all life circumstances. Through this ministry, women are encouraged and supported with scripture and life application. Mom-Sense helps women overcome life struggles through small group classes with biblical curriculum, individual counseling, bible studies, and other areas of support.

Betty also directs the Imperial Valley Life Center, which is a non-profit faith-based pro life women’s resource center. She has a passion for saving the unborn and supporting mothers through pregnancy and motherhood.

Betty loves to speak at events, sharing the love of Jesus with other women. She does this through practical life application mingled with God’s word, and sprinkled with humor. Having experienced a broken home, divorce, abuse, grief, single motherhood, blended families, and adoption, she uses the broken places and movement of God in her own life to share His word in an inspiring way. She enjoys sharing her blogs on social media as a way of reaching out on a broader spectrum. Betty has many speaking topics which can be found on her website: www.bettypredmore.com

As an author, she has had the opportunity to impact women and reach deep into their hearts with her words of inspiration and encouragement. Through Pondering Virtue and Whispered Grace, she has created wonderful tools for the woman who is seeking direction in her spiritual walk.

Betty serves on the writing team of A Wife Like Me, and is also a contributor to Moms Encouraging Moms and Gift of Thorns. Her blogs have appeared in several magazine publications throughout the years including Southern Faith Magazine, Purposeful Life, and Aspiring Woman Magazine.

While Betty thrives on her ministry opportunities, her greatest blessings come from being a wife to Jim and a mama to their wonderful collection of children, who bring joy, laughter, and an occasional tear to her days.


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