Read 2 Thessalonians 2:13-3:18
I feel like we have raced through the two letters to the Thessalonians, but we’re on schedule to read the whole New Testament in a year. Paul continues to be pleased with how the congregation is managing, with a few exceptions. Clearly, there are areas of ministry that need special attention, and Paul addresses those. Issues that existed then remain today, so his counsel is wise for us as well.
The main theme seems to be: stand firm. That’s easier said than done when we feel pulled from all sides to do things contrary to God’s word, our lessons for a faith-filled life. It is our inheritance to “share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” We don’t want to mess that up by accepting messages contrary to Scripture. Instead, we should lean into Paul’s prayer for us to receive “eternal comfort and a wonderful hope.”
Paul sought the same for himself and his traveling team. He knew they would need faithful prayer warriors to support his continued journey for Jesus and wasn’t afraid to ask for it from these believers. It’s always good to have prayer support when embarking on any ministry endeavor. You don’t have to be on a world tour spanning the globe, the evil one will try to derail all believers who are drawing attention back to the one true God. We see the adversity in Paul’s life. Why should we think we’d be any different?
When we are not standing firm on God’s word, filling our minds with things of God, we can let our weaknesses give Satan a hold. We can fall into our own bad habits. It’s a slippery slope when we think we can do it on our own. When things are going well, we often tend to get overconfident, and our relationship with Jesus can suffer.
Paul went so far as to tell this young congregation to “stay away from all believers who live idle lives and don’t follow the tradition they received from us.” Paul knew that when people are idle and not working, temptations can take over. Paul and his friends had set the example of being both hard-working and devoted believers. When you don’t give evil a chance to sneak into your lives, it’s a lot easier to stand firm.
One of the lines that has stuck with me for years is this: “Never get tired of doing good.” I’ll close with that and encourage you to reflect on all the “good” things you’ve done this week or have on your to-do list for the week ahead. Be energized by doing good in this world. You’ll make a difference to someone.
Let’s pray. Father, help me to stand firm, paying attention to your word and your will for my life. Show me the good things I can be doing to help strengthen your kingdom. There is much work to be done, so don’t let my hands be idle. Give me the endurance to run the race of life, keeping my eyes focused only on you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
