Wednesday 26th February
Read 1 Thessalonians 3:9-10
“How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you? 10 Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.” (NIVUK)
How often do we give thanks for the continuing faith of those around us in the church? Steadfastness is not Paul’s work, it is the work of the Spirit in the lives of those who believe, but that does not mean it can’t be a source of thanksgiving and joy. The Thessalonian believers heard the good news and responded in faith, faith that has lasted, and Paul and his companions can’t help but rejoice.
It is a shared joy ‘in the presence of our God’ (v9b). God indwells Paul and his companions and the Thessalonian believers (and us). As He is the highest and most worthy object of adoration, the shared recognition of His grace enriches the lives of all.
David expressed similar sentiments amidst trouble. The unifying recognition of God’s goodness and grace is a source of strength and encouragement.
“Keep me safe, my God,
for in you I take refuge.
2 I say to the Lord, ‘You are my Lord;
apart from you I have no good thing.’
3 I say of the holy people who are in the land,
‘They are the noble ones in whom is all my delight.’
4 Those who run after other gods will suffer more and more.
I will not pour out libations of blood to such gods
or take up their names on my lips.
5 Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup;
you make my lot secure.
6 The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
surely I have a delightful inheritance.” (Psalm 16:1-6) (NIVUK)
