Devotional - May 27, 2026
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 1: 1-3 Paul, Silas and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace and peace to you. We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers.We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
As I mentioned in the last devotional, Paul values community and knows it is an integral part of ministry. Both as his community of support, Silas and Timothy, and the community he writes to, the church in Thessalonica. There are times when we have to go it alone, but prayerfully make an effort to find support from others. Take a moment and look at the motivation Paul is highlighting and encouraging in their church. Their work is produced by faith. Their labor is prompted by love. Their endurance is inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. We could easily take a week to look at each one of them, but this time we will look at them as a unit. Their work is a product of their faith. Because they are Christians they are not of this world (John 17:16). They are not caught up in all the trappings of worldly life complete with all its pitfalls (Matthew 13: 1-23). They are doing the work of Christ in their daily lives (Matthew 5: 13-16). Their labor is prompted by love. The more you live by the Spirit, the more true compassion and love grows in your heart. This does not mean you say yes to everything, but it does mean you learn how to say no in a better way. You honestly love others and understand their plight. Jesus was so moved that He could even forgive those who crucified Him (Luke 23:34). Your endurance is inspired by your hope in Christ (Romans 5:3-5). Remember, this kind of hope is not I hope so, it is I know so. I believe in the fullness of God revealed in Christ Jesus. It is this kind of belief that galvanizes our spirits to endure the hardships of the Christian life and work. Meditate a bit on the introduction to 1 Thessalonians and use it to quicken your own faith and work for God. What encourages you to work for Christ. When you read this, where do you feel a bit lacking and pray to God about it. If you find yourself lacking, do not be dismayed about it, start building yourself up in those areas with God (Colossians 2: 6-7). The Lord is not done with you yet (Philippians 1:6).
Pray with me..., Holy God, how good it is that You are our Lord and Saviour. Continue to work Your will and way in our lives. Hear us as we pray for our loved ones. Bless them we pray, in accordance with their needs. We ask for Your blessing on our church. Help us to be the people You call us to be in Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
God's peace,
Pastor Brian
