SCRIPTURE: 1 THESSALONIANS 3
Since Paul was not able to see the Thessalonians, he sent Timothy to find out their faith. He was afraid that the tempter might tempt them and his efforts of ministry might have been useless.
TIMOTHY’S ENCOURAGING REPORT (vs. 6-13)
THE GOOD NEWS THAT TIMOTHY BROUGHT ABOUT THE FAITH AND LOVE OF THE THESSALONIANS:
- They always have pleasant memories of Paul and they also long to see Paul. (v. 6)
- They have faith in God. (v. 7)
- They are standing firm in the Lord. (v. 8)
PRAYER OF PAUL TO THE THESSALONIAN CHURCH:
- May our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus clear the way for us to come to you. (v. 11)
- May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone. (v. 12)
- May He strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones. (v. 13)
THOUGHTS:
When Paul was not able to visit the Thessalonians, what did he do?
- He sent Timothy as his representative to minister to the church.
- He prayed for them.
- He wrote two letters to encourage and strengthen their faith.
Can believers escape suffering on earth? God does not promise us of a suffering-free life. Instead, he gives us power to grow through our sufferings. Christian life involves obedience to Christ despite temptations and hardships. Believers should encourage one another to stand firm in the Lord in times of trials.
Paul experienced great joy when he saw people come to know Christ and mature in that faith. He also prayed for their continued spiritual growth. Have you brought someone to Christ? Be sure to support them so that they can continue to grow in their faith.
God had shown his love when he died on the cross for our sins and rose again to bring us new life. Therefore, love is the essential factor that can draw people to Christ. May God’s overflowing love motivate us to express our love to others through our actions.