1 Thessalonians 3:9-13
Reflect
When I think of Paul and the writing attributed to him, often I expect him to be admonishing the recipients of the particular letter. This passage however, and most of 1 Thessalonians leading up to this passage, Paul’s praise for the believers in Thessalonica fills his writing.
While Paul did not sugar coat the life of a Christian to the Thessalonians, and warned of the persecution and struggle that may come, Timothy (who was sent on Paul’s behalf) brings back a report of good news of the Thessalonians’ faith and love.
Paul’s response to this is captured in v.9-13, in which Paul is prompted to do three things. (1) Paul thanks God because of their faith. (2) Paul petitions God to be able to see them face to face again. (3) He petitions God to strengthen their love for one another, and the holiness in their hearts.
While Paul is the voice of this letter, the entire section is written as plural statements. Paul and his entire community rejoice and pray on behalf of the Thessalonians because of their faith. From this celebration, Paul wishes to be able to be with them again, and when he, or perhaps the Lord comes, they would be living in proper relationship with one another. While the Thessalonians have encouraged Paul, he continues to pray for them to increase in their faith, love, and holiness.
How can we also mirror this, through prayer for others, and right relationship with those surrounding us?
Noah Okken
Pray
- Pray for our Senior Lead Team Pastor, Lyle Buyer, his ministry, and family.
- Pray for our Church Board members: Beth Cheung, Gerhard Hiob, Hal Reirson, JD Kliewer, Mary Jetha, Mike Ross, Randy Voss, Seth Jansen, Trevor Toews, Uwem Okome.
- Pray for our Custodians, Adit Gamble, Stan Goodnough and Anne King; Facilities Manager, Joe Richards.
- Pray for Karen Alksne, our Congregational Life Ministry Associate.