2 Thessalonians 1:1-12
Reflect
Trials and persecution are the litmus test for the quality of our faith. When life becomes challenging, uncomfortable, or uncertain, do we see this as an occasion to grow in our faith or to shrink in discouragement? If family members or peers show disdain for our values and the way in which we live out our faith, do we see this as evidence that God is at work in us, or do we despair? When we encounter difficult people, do we joyfully thank God for the opportunity to grow in our love for others or do we avoid them and inwardly close ourselves off?
In the first chapter of 2 Thessalonians, Paul is praising and boasting about the Thessalonians’ increasing faith and love. He reminds them that they do not suffer in vain, and God will bring about His justice. There is a spiritual reality that will be revealed, and their faith will be vindicated.
One of the pillars of faith is to embrace suffering for the glory of Christ. What would it look like for us to see trials and persecutions as opportunities to grow our faith? Would Paul boast about our faith or exhort us to get out of our comfort zones and put our faith into practice? There is a greater spiritual, eternal reality. Let’s live into it today!
Pastor Melissa
Pray
- Pray through the prayer section in our program.
- Pray for our Congregational Life Pastor, Mike Bartusek and his family.
- Pray for Dave Schneider, our Youth and Worship Pastor and Erin Gibbard, Youth Ministry Associate.
- Pray for our office staff: Vicky Bailey, Naomi Voss; bookkeeper Liudmyla Lushchyk
- Pray for our Young Adults Ministry Assistant, Shone Williams.
- Pray for our Hospitality Coordinator, Irene Dickau.