Bible Chapter: II Thessalonians 1

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    This young church was a church of faith.  Their faith was growing more and more as they also grew in their Christian love for each other.  Paul said he boasted of them to other churches.  Their faith and perseverance kept them going in spite of the persecution they were enduring.  They could leave the judgement of their persecutors to God, Who would rightly judge at the proper time.  God will pay back the trouble they endured.  Strong faith is necessary for believers to be able to accomplish what God has planned for them.  What we accomplish is not because of who we are, but because of God and our faith in Him.
    Paul prayed that they would be counted worthy of God’s calling and that His power would fulfill every purpose in their lives.  This was so that Jesus would be glorified in all they did.  They were looking forward to the return of Jesus.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    I need to continually be reminded of the importance of living by faith.  We have a prosperous time to live in.  We have so many conveniences that have become necessities.  We have many safety nets to take care of us.  God wants us to learn to put our trust in HIM.  He is our safety net.  I must always persevere in my trust in Jesus.  God will provide and be the righteous judge in the end.  Jesus will return some day.  Until then I, and all believers, must remain faithful.

3.  How can I help someone?
    I want to encourage all believers to keep their trust in Jesus.  He is the only One Who has all power and provision.  He made everything out of nothing.  If He has to do it again, He can.  He fed thousands with the lunch of one boy.  He can stop anything or open anything or do anything needed.  I want to encourage people to remember that Jesus will be the righteous judge.  He will reward faithfulness.  He will also judge sin and disobedience.  We have a choice as to which we will do.