1 THESSALONIANS 31-4A

So, when we could stand it no longer, we thought it best to be left by ourselves in Athens. We sent Timothy, who is our brother and co-worker in God’s service in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, so that no one would be unsettled by these trials. For you know quite well that we are destined for them. In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. 

TO PODER

St. Paul considered the congregation in Thessalonica to be his glory and joy before the Lord Jesus (chapter2). They had become his dear friends and partners in the Gospel, bringing him joy and satisfaction even while under persecution and suffering.

Is it that we forget too easily, or perhaps we have never become aware of the repayment we receive for loving others with the Gospel. Those who receive willingly become our friends and allies in a dark world. They become our joy, strength, and support, even when times are tough. As his thoughts of them strengthen him, so he goes out of his way to strengthen them by sending Timothy as their spiritual advisor while under their own persecution.

Jesus said that the measure of loving service we use for others would be repaid as much as ten times. As we love, so we are loved. 

PRAYER: Father, as we have been gifted, so may we gift. Amen.

Today's devotion written by David Schuppan, LifeWay Illawarra