JULY 5 – - – 2 Thessalonians 1
Things just CAN’T get Any Worse…!
It’s almost as if those words are an invitation for trouble! Because no sooner did we think it, then it actually happened – things got worse! They did in Thessalonica… things were bad enough when Paul penned his first letter, but by the time this (his second) letter signed, sealed & delivered – things had gotten much, much worse!
So how does Paul start this letter to a group of people who are really going through it…?
In chapter one we see Paul doing three things; and maybe these are three things that you should do with a friend you have who is struggling today. First, Paul Praises the believers in Thessalonica! He writes to them to encourage them, because he see’s great Progressin them; he tells them that there faith & their love for one another have grown – which is crazy because when you and I struggle under pressure & trials our faith often waivers and our selfishness grows because we are no longer God focused, but constantly thinking oh poor me!
Paul then reminds them of a Promise; that we will all be Repaid (verses 5-10) for the way that we live in eternity to come. And for some, those who were treating them so poorly; it meant retribution! But for others, the believers Paul was writing this letter to; it meant REWARD! So often when we struggle under persecution or pressure, we wonder is this Worth it!? And Paul takes the time to remind them to place an eye at heavens gate; for when we arrive, then we will know – It was ALL Worth It!
Paul then PRAYS for his Friends who were Suffering. And what a great reminder it is for us, because there are times when we can’t light the spirit of a friend – But God, can See & Do what we cannot. Isn’t that the Beauty & Wonder of Prayer.
So TODAY, I’d bet you have a friend that could use some encouragement – so take the time, MAKE THE TIME… to Praise their Progress, remind them of God’s Promise, and Pray for them!
- Trevor
