1 Thessalonians 5

1As for times and dates, brothers and sisters, there is no need for us to write to you. 2You know very well yourselves that the Lord’s day comes like a thief at night. 3Just when people are saying, “All is peaceful and safe,” ruin will fall on them without warning, as labor pains come on a woman who is expecting a child, and there will be no escape. 4But you, brothers and sisters, are not living in darkness, for that day to catch you by surprise like a thief. 5You are all children of light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to darkness. 6So then, we must not sleep like the rest, but stay awake and keep a clear head. 7Sleepers sleep at night, and drinkers get drunk at night. 8But we belong to the day, so let us keep our heads clear, with faith and love for our breastplate and the hope of salvation for our helmet. 9For God did not destine us for wrath. He destined us to gain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10who died for us so that, awake or asleep, we may live with him together. 11So keep on encouraging one another and strengthening each other, as you are already doing.

12We ask you, brothers and sisters, to recognize those who work hard among you, who lead you in the Lord and correct you. 13Think of them with the highest respect and love because of the work they do. Keep peace among yourselves. 14We urge you, brothers and sisters: correct those who are out of line, encourage the fainthearted, stand by the weak, and be patient with everyone. 15See that no one pays back harm with harm. Always go after what is good, for one another and for all people. 16Be joyful at all times. 17Never stop praying. 18Whatever happens, give thanks; this is what God wants for you in Christ Jesus. 19Do not smother the Spirit; 20do not look down on prophecy. 21Test everything; keep hold of what is good; 22stay away from evil in every form.

23May the God of peace himself make you holy in every part, and may your spirit, soul and body be kept whole and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24The God who calls you can be trusted, and he will do it.

25Brothers and sisters, pray for us. 26Greet all the brothers and sisters with a holy kiss. 27By the Lord, I solemnly charge you: have this letter read to all the brothers and sisters. 28May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.