Tuesday 21st November
“We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing. Therefore, we ourselves boast about you in the churches of God for your steadfastness and faith in all your persecutions and in the afflictions that you are enduring. This is evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are also suffering.” (2 Thessalonians 1:3-5)
Paul is again giving thanks for fellow believers and as seems often to be the case it is thanks for the growth in faith and love. This growth has been in the context of persecution and Paul is well aware that the Thessalonian church has stood firm. He reminds them that this growth in faith is clear evidence of their ‘membership’ in the kingdom. So again, it seems that this passage is more about encouragement than prayer; what is there to learn about prayer? Possibly the words ‘ought always give thanks’ is a good hint. As we pray for people of our fellowship, for those persecuted for their faith here and elsewhere, those serving in cross-cultural situations etc. we must remember to partner with them, giving thanks for them and asking that they will continue to grow closer to Jesus and that the bond of fellowship with other believers might support them in their ministry.
Geoff Hinch
