We saw yesterday that the Thessalonians, though they were new believers, were facing troubles and persecutions. Paul wanted desperately to visit with them, but this was not possible. And so, according to chapter 3, he did the next best thing; he sent his young coworker Timothy. He sent him to strengthen them, to encourage them in the faith, and to keep them from being shaken by the troubles. Christians are destined for troubles. We shouldn't let troubles weaken our faith; in fact, they should strengthen our faith!
When Timothy returned to Paul with a good report, Paul and company were greatly encouraged in the midst of their own troubles and sufferings. "It gives us new life to know that you are standing firm in the Lord." Always remember that your testimony whether in good or bad times has a profound effect on others.
And so we see that Paul actually did three things to encourage the believers at Thessalonica.
- He sent Timothy to check on them when he was unable to go himself.
- He prayed for them. vv. 11-13 Prayer is something we can all do for one another.
- Paul prayed that God would allow him to visit them.
- He prayed that their love for one another and for all people would grow and overflow.
- He prayed that God would make their hearts strong, blameless, and holy as they looked forward to the second coming of our Lord Jesus.
- He wrote them two letters of encouragement. (1 and 2 Thessalonians) Is there someone you can encourage with a card, letter, or phone call?
Praise the Lord!
- Why should we praise the Lord? He has done wonderful deeds. He has won a mighty victory and has shown His saving power. He has revealed His righteousness to every nation. He has remembered His promise of love and faithfulness to Israel; and He will remember us, His children, in the same way. vv. 1-3
- How should we praise the Lord? Sing! v. 1 "Shout to the Lord, all the earth; break out in praise and sing for joy!" v. 4 Enjoy all the musical instruments, and make a joyful symphony before the Lord, the King! vv. 4-6 We may not all be great musicians, but we can all sing, smile, rejoice, and praise the Lord. Let's pray that we'll all be joyful Christians!
- Who should praise the Lord? vv. 7-9 Even the natural world--all creation "praises the Lord." Nature herself shows us daily how great and powerful and good our God is. And we are a special part of God's creation. Surely we should be first to praise our God!
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