hope, joy, and a crown
Contrasting
the relationship we have with those who oppose the gospel, Paul illustrates the
tenderness shared between believers:
“brethren”. This is a great
reminder not to take for granted the familial bonds we have with other believers,
and to remember the goodness of being “connected”.
It
is not known how “Satan hindered” Paul from his intended visit to the
Thessalonians. Perhaps it was illness,
perhaps political maneuvering, perhaps it was a series of circumstantial
events. The point is, Paul is convinced
and confirming the reality of the evil spirit which opposes the gospel and our
best interests.
Paul
was not always in control of his circumstances and he knew it, but he did not
focus on the frustration that could bring, nor on the evil force behind it. He simply states it as it is: Satan at work keeping people separated from
one another. Then, as with a heart of
gratitude Paul comments on why he desires again their fellowship:
1. Hope: to see God’s workmanship continuing to develop
in them.
2. Joy: delight
about their relationship with God.
3. Crown of
rejoicing: They, the Thessalonians are a
signpost or mark of Paul’s labor of love, their walk with God demonstrates the
fruit of Paul’s evangelism under the leading and guidance of the Holy
Spirit. God working in others and
through Paul.
But
how does this apply to you and to me?
Let’s try and apply it this way:
1. What
or where will I set my focus? Will it be on the goodness of
God and His work in the world, or on the evil of Satan?
2. What or where is my hope? Am I
looking for God’s workmanship in progress, heading toward completion?
3. What or where is my joy? Does it involve others’ walk with God? Should it?
Who are the people in your life that you are pouring into right
now? Are you rejoicing at their
victories, praying for their weaknesses, and hoping in Jesus Christ for their
maturity in faith?
4. What is my “crown of rejoicing”? As a wreath or a trophy might mark completion
or success in a race, what “marks of success” can I see in my own sphere of
influence? This includes the growth in people in whom I invest my time, energy,
prayer and love.
Spend
some time in prayer and reflection on your answers. If adjustments need to be
made, invite the Holy Spirit into your situation and to help set a new course
in your life according to the powerful Word of God.
Read and Pray: Ephesians
4:1-3, 1 Peter 5:8-11, John 17:20-23
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