1 Thessalonians 4:9-12
Reflect
You may have caught already that Paul wanted to remain in Thessalonica; however, the severe persecution from the Jews upon the Christians caused him to move on (Acts 17) to protect other Christians. Paul’s love and the burden of feeling there was unfinished discipleship wore heavy on him, and throughout this letter he emphasizes some very practical ways to keep growing, learning, and serving.
The first portion of today’s passage is all affirmation up until that small three letter word, “But”, everything shifts as Paul provides wisdom to the original audience, and certainly to us as well! Paul’s motivation is not just so they would feel better, not even because it would benefit the church. No, one reason provided in v12, is “so that” those not in the church would not see us as the barrier to joining the family of God. Quarreling, squawking about others, sticking our nose into other people’s business, and being a sloth are not compelling, nor are they honouring to our God.
The way that we carry ourselves should not be a mask of who we really are. God is all about transformation down to our roots, so that the fruit we produce reveals His goodness.
Apply
How are your activities a testimony to the work of Jesus in you and through you?
What do you need to do less of, to be freed up to fulfil God’s calling on your life?
I’d love to prayerfully discern this with you.
Pastor Dan
Pray
- Pray for our Prime Minister and Premier, Mayor Sohi, your MP, your MLA, and any other government officials God brings to your mind.
- Pray for our Worship Ministries Assistant, Daniel Zander.
- Pray for our office staff: Vicky Bailey, Naomi Voss; bookkeeper Liudmyla Lushchyk