Tuesday 21st October
Read 2 Thessalonians 3:6-8
“In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, 8 nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, labouring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you.” (NIVUK)
Paul consistently modelled the Christian life. His actions were as important as his words. In many of his letters he reminds the believers of his way of life amongst them and deliberately calls them to remember how he lived and imitate it.
In this instance it was his work ethic that he reminded them of. The principle being that no-one should be a burden to the community. They did not beg or bludge. They spent their time earning a living and undertaking ministry at great sacrifice.
Paul leaves us with the implicit challenge. Could we bid those we know to imitate us also? What do we model by your words and deeds?
