1 Thessalonians_4

Scripture 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12  Now about your love for one another we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other. 10 And in fact, you do love all of God’s family throughout Macedonia. Yet we urge you, brothers and sisters, to do so more and more, 11 and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, 12 so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody. 

Observation-What does it say?

 

The Apostle Paul continues writing to the Thessalonian church and addresses their Christian walk. He urges them to continue to love one another, but to also make sure that their daily life wins the respect of outsiders. 

 

Understanding-What does it mean?

 

Paul is telling the church that their lives are a walking testimony. 

 

He begins chapter 4 by talking about sexual immorality and the importance of controlling our own bodies and living a pure/holy life. Then he goes on to talk about love for each other (specifically speaking to loving each other as brothers and sisters in Christ). Finally, he speaks about being a hard worker and leading a life that wins the respect of outsiders. Life Application Does our daily lives lead others to praise Jesus or does it lead others away from Him? 

 

Daily life is not just about church ministry. It also means at home, when no one is looking. How is our love for others, servant's heart and integrity when no one is looking and when we aren't rewarded in this world for it? 

 

“For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for His name in serving the saints, as you still do.  And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” -Hebrews 6:10-12 “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” -1 Corinthians 15:58 “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” -Matthew 5:16 Dear Lord, I pray that my daily life would win the respect of outsiders and that my good deeds would lead others toward Your throne of grace and a personal relationship with You. Amen.  -Michelle Gaddi