May 14, 2012 (1 Chronicles 22-24; 1 Thessalonians 3)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “So we have been greatly encouraged in the midst of our troubles and suffering, dear brothers and sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith.” 1 Thessalonians 3:7 NLT
Observation: Paul was a minister that preached for the right reasons. He wanted to see peoples lives changed for the better. He knew and understood how satan would attack those that put their faith in Jesus Christ. When Paul left any particular town the people left behind were constantly on his mind. Are they standing strong? Have they given in to the temptation satan has laid before them? Do they remember what I taught them? These were all questions that went through Paul’s mind. This is why he was so eager to get back to see them. He wanted to see if they had continued in the faith. When he found out they had indeed continued, and grown in their faith, he was greatly encouraged. Even though Paul was facing troubles and suffering, he found comfort and strength in the faithfulness of others.
Application: Nothing is more encouraging and comforting to a minister of the gospel than to see people’s lives changed and see them continue in the faith. It’s like a shot of adrenaline for the spirit and soul. On the other hand, nothing is more depressing than to see people receive the good news of Jesus Christ and then forsake it. We have the ability to encourage or discourage others by our faithfulness to the gospel of Jesus Christ. When we stand strong in our faith and willingly suffer whatever persecution may come, we give others courage to stand firm and faithful as well. However, if we give up and quit we can easily dishearten others to follow our example. It’s very important when we put our hand of faith to the plow that we never look back! Once Christ has entered into us we have the greatest gift we could ever receive already, there is nothing to turn back to.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me every day. Thank You for Your word and the understanding You give. Help me understand what You say and what You mean, sometimes it seems so hard. Help me be an encouragement to others by standing strong in my faith in You, in Jesus name, Amen!