1 Thessalonians 5: 12, 13:“But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Live in peace with one another.” Peace on earth: everyone wants it, how do we get there? One often-ignored element is brought up by St. Paul here. Esteeming our leaders is an important first step. Constant criticism, finger-pointing, and faultfinding toward those in charge lead to a toxic atmosphere no one wants to be a part of. Dealing with such unruliness (v. 14), along with the rest of the principles in this entire reading, will bring about the peace God promises.
