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Standing fast in faith!

Scripture reading for June 16th: 1st Thessalonians 3

Key Scriptures: 1st Thessalonians 3:4-8 “For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass and just as you know. For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain. But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love and reported that you always remember us kindly and long to see us, as we long to see you– for this reason, brothers, in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith. For now we live, if you are standing fast in the Lord.”

Paul loved the Thessalonians and was concerned how they might be taking the afflictions and persecutions coming against Paul as well as believers. He sent Timothy to them to find out about their faith. Timothy informed Paul that the believers were standing firm in faith and love. This brought great comfort and encouragement to Paul. He knew that Satan, the tempter, would be at work as well and wanted to strengthen these friends with God’s Word, as he had earlier when he warned them of coming affliction and persecution. Good pastors and apostles love and watch over their people and guard them against the tempter by equipping them with the Word.

1st Thessalonians 3:9-10 “For what thanksgiving can we return to God for you, for all the joy that we feel for your sake before our God, as we pray most earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith?”

Faith confession and prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for godly pastors and apostles who care for the souls of those they are sent to serve. May I give you joy by serving faithfully and praying for those you send me to. May You have great joy as believers stand firm in their faith! One day there will be a great reunion as we enjoy Your love and presence forever and ever!

3rd John 3-4 “For I rejoiced greatly when the brothers came and testified to your truth, as indeed you are walking in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”