1 Thessalonians 3 - 12.30.24
Scripture:
1 Thessalonians 3:7-9
7 Therefore, brothers and sisters, in all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith. 8 For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord. 9 How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you?
Observation:
“Paul wrote this letter from Corinth, and his coming to that city was marked by difficulty. He said of his coming to Corinth, I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling (1 Corinthians 2:3). Yet since Timothy came back with good news, Paul had a renewed strength and freshness of life (for now we live). It made Paul feel much better that the Thessalonians were doing well…..For what thanks can we render to God for you: Paul’s thanks and joy overflowed because he knew that they did stand fast in the Lord. Some find it easy to rejoice in the material prosperity in the life of others, but Paul honestly rejoiced in the spiritual prosperity of others.” (David Guzik-Enduringword.com)
Timothy had just given a good report to Paul, regarding the Thessalonian church, about how well they had been doing in their faith. That encouraged and strengthened Paul so much, especially while he was going through trials in Corinth!
Application:
Encourage someone in the faith today, through your own faith! Encouragement goes a long way.
Imagine a brother or sister going through a trial in their faith with the Lord, but then being strengthened and encouraged because Your daily life shows a faith standing firm in the Lord. That’s how it was for the Apostle Paul!
Can you think of a time where you were going through a hard time, but then someone encouraged you through their steadfast faith? Let’s also be that person to someone else!
Prayer:
Thank You Lord that we don’t live this faith journey alone. Thank You for the men, women, youth and children in my life who have encouraged my own faith, especially in difficult times. I pray that I would be able to share that same encouragement with others as I lean on You daily. Amen.
-Michelle Gaddi