Tag: 1 Thessalonians 3
Standing fast in the Lord!
Scripture reading for September 16: 1 Thessalonians 3
“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. 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.” 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10
In the culture of our world, people are often very fickle. They may be enthusiastic about a cause or even about the Gospel presented in the conviction of the Holy Spirit. They start out well and with good intentions, but then Satan’s hinderances and attacks draw their heart back to their old ways. Their world view is that whatever feels good at the moment is what to do and follow. They naturally seek the easy route through life’s difficulties.
Paul had been informed that the Thessalonians had suffered great affliction and persecution. He was concerned that this affliction would send the new converts back to their old ways. He sent Timothy there to check on them and he brought good news of their faith and love for Paul and one another. They longed to see Paul again and were standing fast in faith. This report brought great joy and thanksgiving to Paul for God’s faithfulness and provision. Paul prayed all the more that God would allow him to return to them and see them face to face and further help them in their new life of faith. Reports of faithfulness bring comfort and encouragement to spiritual fathers and leaders. Praise our Lord!
In your own walk with Christ, have you ever allowed affliction or hardship to send you on a path away from faith? Have you ever been surprised by someone standing fast in faith in spite of many difficulties and hardships? What are some factors that help us to stand firm in faith in spite of suffering?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for strengthening the hearts of Your people through the Holy Spirit and preparing us all for suffering through Your Word and the example of past believers. As a pastor, help me to pray for those going through suffering and affliction and encourage them. Amen.