AN ENCOURAGING REPORT

Passage: 1Thessalonians 3:6~13  

Key verse: 8


1. Since you are standing firm (6-10)

Paul and his co-workers were facing a time of persecution and distress. He was more concerned about the faith of the new believers in Thessalonica than about himself. When he received a good report about their faith and love, he said, 'Now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord.' He did not pray that they would be spared suffering and hardship; he prayed that they might stand firm in their faith and love one another. He prayed for them night and day and longed to visit them. He shows us how to help sheep--and our adult children.

2. A prayer for God's flock (11-13)

Paul prayed that God would enable him to visit them; he prayed that their love for one another and for everyone else might increase. When faith doesn't grow, love becomes cold. He prayed that God might strengthen their hearts so that they might live before God until Jesus comes again.


Prayer: Lord, help me to love others in such a way that their faith is built up and their hearts are strengthened.

One Word: Stand firm in faith and love